Map Your Neighborhood concept wins FEMA award

From Washington State Emergency Management Division

Washington's Map Your Neighborhood Program Wins FEMA National Award

Camp Murray, WA--Washington State's Map Your Neighborhood program has won the first national Challenge Award from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The award was announced today by FEMA Administrator Craig Fugate on his blog.

"We are very pleased this Washington State program was the top pick for innovative community preparedness programs from among 50 entries nationwide," said Jim Mullen, director, Washington Emergency Management. "Map Your Neighborhood has been adopted in 29 counties and more than 120 city/community organizations in Washington State. The program has received inquiries or been implemented in 30 states and more than 120 cities across the nations."

Mullen said the program's success is based on its focus on disaster preparedness at the neighborhood level so neighbors can care for neighbors in the first hours of an emergency before first responders can reach them. "Groups of 15-20 neighbors meet together under the program to carry out a nine-step response plan that includes a skill and equipment inventory, a neighborhood map of utility connections, and a contact list of specific needs in the neighborhood." he added.

Today's aware is also a tribute to Dr. LuAn Johnson, who implemented the program at the Washington Emergency Management Division, said Mullen. "While Dr. Johnson recently left the agency, she has established a program for our state and nation that can save many, many lives in future disasters. On behalf of all those who have or will benefit from her efforts, we thank her."

More information about the Map Your Neighborhood program can be found at: www.emd.wa.gov/preparedness/prep_neighborhoods.shtml.

(If you are interested in putting together a Map Your Neighborhood presentation in your neighborhood, contact Jennifer at 577-3130.)