Firewhirl: FEMA Not a First Responder Archives

FEMA Not a First Responder

FEMA Acting Director Paulison noted that FEMA is not a first responder (from FireChief.com).

Above all, however, Paulison emphasized that effective emergency management requires a team approach, and that FEMA is not a first responder. "The first response belongs in the hands of those closest to the incident, those state and local officials who are putting together the evacuation plans and shelter locations and educating their residents on when to evacuate, where to go and what to do," he said.

"We can all agree that disaster response starts at the local level. When the local government is overwhelmed, they ask the state for support, and when the state is overwhelmed, you request support from FEMA and the federal government," said Paulison. "Effective emergency management requires a team approach. This partnership needs to include all levels of government and all disciplines of emergency management and response."

Everyone in the U.S. needs to read this statement, especially the news media. FEMA really took a beating after Hurricane Katrina. Much of the criticism was deserved, but I also think people have inaccurate expectations of FEMA.

Comments