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Hurricane Season Underway- Preparedness Tips!
Sources: 2023 Hurricane Season Underway; Make Sure You're Prepared | Emergency Management News | News | Hampton Roads Planning District Commission (hrpdcva.gov) | NOAA predicts a near-normal 2023 Atlantic hurricane season | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
We are a month into the 2023 hurricane season! This year, it is expected that the Atlantic region will have near-normal hurricane activity with 12-17 named storms, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. While we are already underway, most tropical storm activity occurs around September and so if you have not done so, now is the perfect time to start hurricane preparations!
Here are a few items to check off your hurricane prep list:
1. Review your current insurance.
In a coastal community like Hampton Roads, it’s not only the hurricane-force winds that pose a threat, but also flooding from extended downpour and tidal surge. Just 1 inch of flood water can cost $25k in damage (source). Additionally, most homeowners’ and renters’ insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Don’t know where to start? Take a look at www.getfloodfluent.org to get you pointed in the right direction. But act quickly, most flood insurance policies have a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins.
2. Know Your Zone.
In the event of severe weather, voluntary or mandatory evacuation may be necessary. Localities in Hampton Roads utilize a zoned evacuation. Zones are designated A through D and provide residents with clarity on whether they should evacuate in an emergency or shelter at home, based on their physical street address and the nature of the emergency event. Visit www.vaemergency.gov/know-your-zone to determine which zone your address is located.
3. Signup for locality alerts.
During a disaster, staying informed is a top priority. Many localities utilize alert systems to send official, real-time alerts to the public with information about potentially life-saving actions citizens may need to take to keep themselves and their families safe. Search for “emergency alert” on your locality’s website to sign up.
4. Build a Kit and make a plan.
Tropical storms can bring substantial disruptions to the goods and services we utilize every day. Things like electrical power, communications, and the food industry may be temporarily unavailable. Planning ahead will greatly mitigate these impacts. For resources on building your own personalized kit and plan, see www.ready.gov and www.vaemergency.gov/prepare.
Hurricanes are among nature's most powerful and destructive forces. These massive storms can bring torrential rains, high winds, storm surges, and devastating flooding. In light of these threats it is imperative that individuals, families, and communities to be well-prepared to mitigate these risks and ensure the safety of you and your loved ones.
 4th of July- Safety and Preparedness
Sources: Fireworks | CPSC.gov | The Fourth of July: FEMA Promotes Safety and Preparedness | FEMA.gov
As we look ahead to celebrating the Independence Day holiday, VDEM encourages practicing safety this summer!
Over the past 15 years, reports show an increase in injury during this time of year due to several factors including extreme heat, fires, and injuries due to fireworks and outdoor cooking. As reported by the US CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission), in 2021, at least nine persons died, and an estimated 11,500 individuals were injured in incidents involving fireworks, with 32% of these injuries coming from burns.
The report also shows the following:
· Of the nine U.S. deaths, six were associated with firework misuse, one death was associated with a mortar launch malfunction, and two incidents were associated with unknown circumstances.
· There were an estimated 11,500 emergency room-treated injuries involving fireworks in 2021—down from the spike (15,600) experienced in 2020, during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, when many public displays were cancelled.
· An estimated 8,500 fireworks-related injuries (or 74 percent of the total estimated fireworks-related injuries in 2021) occurred during the 1-month special study period between June 18 and July 18 last year.
· Young adults 20 to 24 years of age had the highest estimated rate of emergency department-treated, fireworks-related injuries in 2021.
· In 2021, there were an estimated 1,500 emergency department-treated injuries associated with firecrackers and 1,100 involving sparklers.
· In 2021, the parts of the body most often injured by fireworks were hands and fingers (an estimated 31 percent of injuries) along with head, face, and ears (an estimated 21 percent).
· About 32 percent of the emergency department-treated fireworks-related injuries in 2021 were for burns.
· In 2021, approximately 31 percent of selected and tested fireworks products were found to contain noncompliant components, including fuse violations, the presence of prohibited chemicals and pyrotechnic materials overload.
Breakdown of injuries according to body parts are as follows:
14% eyes
21% head, face, ears
31% hands and fingers
34% legs, trunk, arms
To limit instances in which injuries can occur and ensure your family’s safety, encourage them to practice the following fire safety tips:
· Never allow children to play with or ignite fireworks, including sparklers.
· Make sure fireworks are legal in your area before buying or using them.
· Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
· Light fireworks one at a time, then move back quickly.
· Never try to relight or pick up fireworks that have not ignited fully.
· Never use fireworks while impaired by alcohol or drugs.
Other safety tips to ensure a fun holiday weekend include:
· Having a plan when attending large gatherings to know where to meet up if you get separated from friends and family
· Attend public firework displays and leave the
· Keep children and pets at least three-feet from grills and campfires
· Monitor the weather; ensure you can receive weather alerts for areas you will be visiting
· Drink plenty of water – even if you do not feel thirsty
· Never leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles
· Check on family, friends, and neighbors who do not have air-conditioning and spend much of their time alone
5th Annual Hill of Heroes Display
Sources: Volunteers needed to install 12,000 flags at Virginia War Memorial (wtvr.com) | 'Hill of Heroes' installation now on display in Richmond: 'We can never forget' (wtvr.com)
On Friday June 23rd, many honored and recognized the thousands of Virginia men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice to our country with an American flag installation on Belvidere Street, at the 5th annual Hill of Heroes display. The event showcased the installation of 12,000 American flags, in remembrance of our fallen heroes.
Dozens of volunteers, members of the Armed Forces, families, and civilians spent the morning planting and sharing their experiences:
“The sight of thousands of flags covering the Memorial grounds is truly awe-inspiring and inspirational and will remind all of us of tremendous sacrifices of our Virginia heroes who gave their all to protect our precious freedoms,” said Virginia War Memorial Director Dr. Clay Mountcastle.
"Definitely a lot of pride," said Pfc. Elizabeth Cortez with 262nd Quartermaster Battalion of what she felt as she placed the flags. "A lot of pride. And so many thank you's to all the people that gave their lives for us."
"We can never forget the people who paved the way and so we could be here today," added Pvt. Rashad Clifford, with the same battalion.
“Every single time you plant a flag, you're ensuring that a service member who died on your behalf is remembered. It’s really the people that come here that bring this place to life,” Memorial operations manager, Ben King,
Attendees were also joined by state officials including First Lady of Virginia Suzanne Youngkin, Virginia Department of Veterans Services Commissioner Daniel Gade, and Virginia Department of Veterans and Defense Affairs Secretary Craig Crenshaw.
The flag planting was followed by a celebration at the memorial, and the display will run through July 14th.
 Metro opens applications for reduced fares to assist low-income customers
Sources: Who qualifies for Metro's reduced fares? | wusa9.com | Metro to offer reduced fares to low-income customers | wusa9.com
Exciting news for those living in the metropolitan area!
Metro began offering reduced fared to help low-income customers on Tuesday, June 20th, as part of the new Metro Lift program. This program aims to advance transit equity and affordability, as it is now accessible to an estimated 471,000 people receiving SNAP benefits across the region.
Those who are enrolled in the program will receive a 50% discount for any travel on Metrorail and Metrobus. The fare discount will be valid for one year and will be available up to 48 hours after online enrollment, and immediately for those that enroll in person.
Online enrollment and appointment scheduling is now open via the following:
Online (opens Tuesday June 20, 2023)
· Go to wmata.com/MetroLift.
· Complete the enrollment form for you and/or members of your SNAP household.
· Discount will be loaded to SmarTrip card up to 48 hours after enrollment.
· Use your SmarTrip card and go.
In-person (starting Monday June 26, 2023)
· Schedule an appointment to visit an in-person enrollment centers. Appointment booking will be available beginning Tuesday, June 20:
o Online at wmata.com/MetroLift; or
o By Phone at 1-888-SmarTrip (888-762-7874).
· In-person enrollment will be available at the following locations:
o Metro Center Metro Station 12th & F Street NW Entrance - Mezzanine Level
o Metro Headquarters 300 7th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
o New Carrollton Metro Office 4100 Garden City Dr, Hyattsville, MD 20785
· Bring the required materials for you and/or your SNAP household members.
· Use your SmarTrip card and go.
What you need
· SmarTrip® card for you and each member of your household being enrolled
· Active SNAP EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) card
· Copy of your SNAP proof of benefits (if you are applying for your household)
· Current photo identification (ID) card issued by the U.S., DC, Maryland, or Virginia
· Phone number
Anyone who needs help is urged to contact Metro in one of the following ways:
· Chat: Customer service agents are live and available Monday-Friday 7 am-7 pm, excluding holidays. Click here to chat.
· Phone: Call Customer Support at 888-762-7874, 7 a.m. - 8 p.m., Monday - Friday, except Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
· Language Assistance: WMATA provides language assistance and interpretation free of charge for over 100 languages. Call 202-637-7000 (TTY 202-638-3780). Press 1 for Spanish translation. For all other languages, press 88 and then press 5.
 Environmental Preservation for World Nature Conservation Day
Sources: The Nature Conservancy: A World Where People & Nature Thrive | WORLD NATURE CONSERVATION DAY - July 28, 2023 - National Today | FEMA Focuses on Environmental Preservation to Fight Climate Change | FEMA.gov
World Nature Conservation Day is an annual event held on July 28, for preserving a healthy environment and natural resources to maintain a stable and healthy society. This celebration emphasizes keeping the various components of nature such as flora, fauna, energy resources, soil, water, and air intact. In addition, World Nature Conservation Day underlines the need for preserving the environment for future generations, entrusting us all with the task to leave a healthy planet for those coming after us to enjoy.
While awareness about environmental conservation has increased in the past few years, human activities during the last century have had a devastating impact on natural vegetation and other resources. The quest for rapid industrialization and cutting down of forest cover to make space for the ever-growing population has caused climate change and other environmental implications.
5 facts about conservation
1. Around one million species of plants and animals are nearly extinct
2. Only 12.5% of the landmass on Earth is dedicated to natural reserves
3. It is reported that there has been an average of 68% drop in the global population of birds, amphibians, fish, mammals, and reptiles between 1970 and 2016.
4. Freshwater wildlife species populations are declining disproportionately faster than others, by an average of 84% between 170 and 2018.
5. The U.S, the U.K, India, South Africa, Brazil, and Australia suffer an annual combined loss of 4316 billion due to invasive species.
As we experience such changes, focusing on how we can preserve our environment must become a priority. On a national level, FEMA is working to ensure that program and grants take the historic, cultural properties, and environmental resources of the community into consideration when building resilience or recovering from a disaster. In 2021, the office reviewed over 20,220 Public Assistance projects to find ways to minimize or mitigate impacts to environmental and cultural resources while recovering from disasters. They mobilized the protection of cultural and historic resources during 17 major disasters by reaching out to representatives across 20 states. Thee Heritage Emergency National Task Force mobilized to help protect cultural and historic resources in all major disasters with a significant outreach to a national network of cultural heritage networks to provide support to these critically important resources and save them from permanent loss.
During this month, we can all get involved in efforts to practice conservation and preserve the environment within our own communities by staying informed about the resources that surround us. We all have an obligation to protecting our environment and building resilience through every action including: participating in our local recycling programs, cutting down on plastic use, reducing our electronic waste, saving water, proactively helping curb pollution and trash, and getting involved in local organizations that are helping decrease environmental justice and hazard issues.
Important headlines from FEMA
 Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Richmond, VA
Source: Public Invited to Review Flood Maps in Richmond, VA | FEMA.gov
Release Date: June 23, 2023
PHILADELPHIA- FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Richmond, Virginia. Community partners are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.
The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community partners can identify any corrections or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.
The 90-day appeal period will begin on June 23, 2023. Residents, business owners and other community partners are encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements. They may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.
· An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
· Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
· If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.
The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.
Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator Eric Whitehurst eric.whitehurst@RVA.gov. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer FEMA Region 3 Mitigation Mapping and Data.
For more information about the flood maps: · Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C (just click on the “Live Chat” icon).
· Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMA-FMIX@fema.dhs.gov.
Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flooding. There are cost-saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.
City of Richmond Flood Mapping Milestones
· July 28, 2021 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data.
· Feb. 2, 2022 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released.
· April 18, 2022 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance.
· June 23, 2023 –Appeal Period starts. · July and August 2023 — City of Richmond will host public meetings. Visit RVA.gov for details.
· Summer 2024* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect. (*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process.)
If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.
The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), CISA Region 3 (District of Columbia, Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia) invites you to join a two-hour security webinar. This webinar provides information and best practices that supports and enhances the emergency action planning capabilities of your organization.
Preparing employees for a potential active shooter event is an integral component of an organization’s incident response planning. Because active shooter incidents are unpredictable and evolve quickly, preparing for and knowing what to do in an active shooter situation can be the difference between life and death. Every second counts.
Registration for this event is free.
To register and more information visit:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cisa-active-shooterpreparedness-webinar-region-3-dcdemdpavawvregistration-643777103647
Registration is limited to 400 participants and will close no later than 12 July 2023
at noon (12:00 p.m.) EDT.
For information and resources visit: cisa.gov/topics/physical-security/active-shooter-preparedness.
Start making your emergency plan today!
 Don't get caught without a plan! Check out these planning resources that will help you kickstart your emergency preparedness and guide you along the way as you make your full plan. "My Emergency Plan" is now available in 6 other languages. Download it and get started now at Make a Plan | VDEM (vaemergency.gov).
 VDEM Region 1 Report
Summer storms have kept region 1 staff busy in June. We monitored storm impacts and responded to requests for assistance in the region. Staff participated in on-going agency strategic planning efforts, supported state level shelter and family assistance center planning, and participated in the Emergency Management Equity Working Group. We also conducted exercise planning and participated in numerous exercises.
VDEM Region 2 Report
Tori Steele, Recovery and Mitigation Specialist, and Jacob Hughes, Disaster Response and Recovery Officer completed the FEMA Basic Academy. The Region supported the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival and Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon in May. The Region 2 Team is moving forward to hire a new All Hazards Planner in the next few months and is expanding with a new position. The
Radiological Emergency Preparedness Specialist will support planning, training, and exercise activities for the North Anna Power Station.
VDEM Region 3 Report
Region 3 Staff Participates in FEMA Provided Dam Safety Training Program
CRC Gene Stewart and AHP Peter Homan along with officials and dam owners from Albemarle County and surrounding geographical areas are participating in a dam safety training program provided by FEMA’s National Dam Safety Program and National Integration Center. To enhance preparedness for dam-related emergencies the Preparing for Dam-Related Emergencies Collaborative Technical Assistance (CTA) Program includes multiple meetings, exercises, and trainings beginning in May and continuing throughout the summer. The associated activities are designed to increase the number of dam inspections as well as the submittal and testing of Emergency Action Plans (EAP). Additional goals of the program include timely reviews and issuance of permits, improved coordination with state emergency preparedness officials, enhanced identification of dams in need of repair or removal, and general dam safety.
Ongoing Exercise Activities Increase Opportunities for Collaboration
The Region 3 team is looking forward to a robust season of the planning and execution of exercises. Partnering with members of the VDEM Training Education and Exercise Division exercises are in the planning phase for the City of Lynchburg and surrounding region and Buckingham, and Amherst Counties. These exercises will test response plans for cyber-attacks, active threats, and other risks identified by partnering localities. Additionally, the Region 3 team is supporting the Central Virginia Health District with planning for a tabletop exercise to test Public Information Plans across the Health District. These exercises, scheduled to be conducted in the fall of 2023 will certainly provide opportunities for enhanced coordination, communication, and collaboration among stakeholders.
At the request of partners from the Department of Social Services, DRRO Lucy Carter Smith served as an evaluator for the Regional Full Scale Exercise on the Blacksburg campus of Virginia Tech. This opportunity provided lessons learned which can be shared with the institutions of higher education located within Region 3 which are tasked with serving as shelter sites.
Recovery Support for Public Assistance for Locality
Overall, Region 3 had about 22 FEMA Public Assistance grants relating to COVID 19 and Winter Storms in the final stages of administrative processing. In most cases this included the following up on documents and signatures required by FEMA for reimbursement of funds to applicants. In the last few weeks, the recovery team has worked to have all documentation appropriately signed and provided to FEMA. At the time of writing only four projects in Region 3 are awaiting final steps for funds to be distributed to those applying for reimbursement under the FEMA Public Assistance Program.
Regional Staff Supporting Outreach Efforts
In addition to exercises, training provided by regional staff provides opportunities for networking, relationship building, and sharing knowledge. DRRO Lucy Carter Smith served as an instructor in Nelson County for the FEMA Local Damage Assessment (G-556) course. Attending were professionals from multiple jurisdictions and partnering organizations.
Other activities regional staff enjoy supporting include providing presentations and participating in events sponsored by other agencies and partners. The Piedmont Health District hosts a staff and volunteer awards day in Prince Edward County. As the Guest Speaker DRRO Lucy Carter Smith spoke on the collaborative planning and response efforts during response to COVID-19. The main focus of her presentation included how critical relationships are in the field of Emergency Management and how they were strengthened by close coordination in the COVID-19 environment.
VDEM Region 4 Report
Regional staff attended the Far Southwest Virginia Healthcare Coalition meeting in early June, as well as the Overdose Spike Action Symposium held in Bristol.
Regional staff also held a training for WebEOC for the local Institutes of Higher Learning.
VDEM Region 5 Report
July, with the heat and humidity, are here for a while.
VDEM Region 5 is focused on Hurricanes and the Bi-annual Surry Nuclear Power Plant Exercise.
June already had significant activity in the Atlantic and the ocean temperatures are higher than usual for this time of year. Please make sure you have a plan for hurricanes (or any disaster) and visit the Know Your Zone website at www.vaemergency.com/know-your-zone/
Every odd numbered year in July (i.e. 2023) VDEM Region 5 staff and Localities work with our partners at Dominion Energy, FEMA, the Virginia Department of Health Office of Radiological Health and others to exercise our Radiological Plans. This allows us to be prepared to respond to and recover from the extremely unlikely event of a nuclear power plant disaster. The plans include protocols for sampling for radiation, evacuation, and prevention. More information on Prevention and other radiation information can be found at the VDH website: www.vdh.virginia.gov/radiological-health/
VDEM Region 6 Report
Supported numerous large scale multi jurisdiction events including Ironman Virginia Blueridge and the 2023 USA Cycling Amateur Road National Championships. We continue supporting large scheduled events throughout the summer and region including holiday, festival, and sporting events.
VDEM Region 7 Report
Some staff took part in the G 2300, Intermediate Emergency Operations Center Functions Course, the course is designed to assist individuals and jurisdictions who desire to develop or improve their Emergency Operation Centers (EOC) skillsets.
Attended DC’s EOC drill at the new District Emergency Operations Center near Nationals Park. The drill was designed to test the EOC’s capabilities and their agency’s connectivity/communications within the space, and review updated activation processes and guidance
Took part in the EMAP (Emergency Management Accreditation Program) Assessor Course, staff learned to serve as on-site peer assessors as part of the emergency management accreditation process. It provided the team with valuable information in assisting them how to assess a jurisdiction’s program for disaster/hazard preparedness using the Emergency Management Standard.
Regional staff engaged with Arlington County’s Public Safety Communications & Emergency Management Communication exercise.
Hosted and instructed the Family Assistance Planning and Operations Foundations Course in Fairfax. The purpose of the course is to provide a foundational understanding of the family assistance operations model to enable participants to effectively plan for and operationalize humanitarian assistance for those impacted by a mass casualty/fatality incident. This two-day training provides an overview of the process of family assistance operations from the time of an incident through recovery.
Participated in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) Phase Two Demonstration which focuses on mitigating the risks and impacts of flooding and wildfires with Chief Deputy State Coordinator Sean Polster, Region 2 and SAU.
The Team will be monitoring multiple 4th of July events happening all across the National Capital Region.
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