Craig Fugate on FEMA, Science and The Media

Check out this piece on FEMA Director Craig Fugate.  

Since taking the position in 2009, he has implemented a number of changes that reflect the realities in which the agency operates.  A tenured emergency manager prior to his time at FEMA, Fugate made news when he began implementing no-notice exercises - which he calls "thunderbolts" - for his staff.

Preppers often criticize FEMA, and let's be honest - who doesn't like saying the term "FEMA Camp" every now and then?  But let's give credit where it's due.  Fugate's efforts at FEMA have made a dramatic improvement at the agency, including the enhancement of programs to help citizens get better prepared.

The challenge FEMA has at the moment is the fact so few Americans are working on their own preparedness.  We need to be mindful that government agencies can only do so much.  Those of us in the preparedness movement need to be doing our part to help set a good example and to be change agents in our own communities.

While we're at it, what can we learn from what FEMA is doing these days in their own operations?  For example:

• When was your last "thunderbolt?"  When did you last ask your family or co-workers what they would do if a tornado was heading for the home or office?  Or that a shelter in place order had just been issued?  Or that the power had just gone out and expected to be down for a period of days?
  
  
• When was the last time you had an intensive review of your insurance with your agent?  Do you have the right coverages?  If a storm hit your house tomorrow, how would the deductible be calculated?
  
  
• How do you allow the media to color your perception of threats?  Do you focus on general readiness for all threats, or do you find yourself becoming fixated on whatever threat is trending in the media at the moment?