Of course, there’s no such thing as a storm-proof house. Assessing things like wind damage, hail damage repair costs, and how to get homeowners insurance to pay for a new roof after a major weather event can be challenging - especially when dealing with loss and injuries. When faced with property damage, it’s in your best interest to explore all support options. There are many federal resources available to help communities prepare for the worst and get back to normal.
FEMA
Established in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) manages the federal government’s response to national crises, both man-made and natural, offering much-needed support to help rebuild communities hard-hit by catastrophes. FEMA is a collaborative effort that aligns the goals of the national emergency tactical plan with the strategies of regional, state and local emergency management offices throughout the country.
Ready.gov
Launched in February 2003, Ready.gov is a national public service campaign designed to educate and empower the American people to prepare for, respond to, and mitigate emergencies - including natural disasters. It's goal is to promote community resiliency through public involvement, as well as to inform and support traditionally vulnerable communities, such as the elderly, medically disabled/electric-dependent, and non-native English speakers.
With the resources available through Ready.gov, families will be able to:
- Stay informed about different types of emergencies and learn how to respond appropriately
- Make a family emergency plan
- Build an emergency supply kit
- Take action as a community to prepare for emergencies (i.e. community resiliency)
CDC.gov
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is a United States federal agency under the Department of Health and Human Services. Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, it's main goal is to protect public health and safety through the control and prevention of disease, injury, and disability in the US and internationally. The CDC's Natural Disaster and Severe Weather Index provides helpful emergency planning information for almost any disaster, including tornados, hurricanes, earthquakes, mudslides, volcanoes, and extreme winter weather.