About FEMA
| About FEMA |
|
DISASTER. It strikes anytime, anywhere. It takes many forms -- a hurricane, an earthquake, a tornado, a flood, a fire or a hazardous spill, an act of nature or an act of terrorism. It builds over days or weeks, or hits suddenly, without warning. Every year, millions of Americans face disaster, and its terrifying consequences. On March 1, 2003, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The primary mission of the Federal Emergency Management Agency is to reduce the loss of life and property and protect the Nation from all hazards, including natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other man-made disasters, by leading and supporting the Nation in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery, and mitigation. FEMA has thousands of dedicated full time employees. They work at FEMA headquarters in Washington D.C., and across the country in regional and area offices. FEMA also has standby disaster assistance employees who are available for deployement after disasters. Often FEMA works with other organizations that are part of the nation's emergency management system. These organizations include state and local emergency management agencies. |
