With FEMA news changing by the day, Chief Marc Bashoor reflects on the current shakeups at the agency as well as the criticisms it faced 20 years ago following Hurricane Katrina. The chief offers insights into why FEMA’s role in disaster response has been misunderstood for years, plus the federal-level changes that could better elevate the role of the fire service. Bashoor urges fire service leaders to speak up about what they need to effectively serve the community — and that includes the impact of losing FEMA funding or programs. “The fire service has not always been one to squeak,” Bashoor notes, calling for firefighters to get more involved where they can, whether at the local, state or federal levels.

Resources:

• Some FEMA staff on leave after ‘statement of opposition’ letter ahead of Katrina anniversary

• The FEMA Katrina Declaration

• A timeline of federal program changes impacting the fire service

• What federal funding is important to you?

• It’s time for a cabinet-level Department of Emergency Services

• Congressional Fire Services Institute

This episode of the Better Every Shift Podcast is sponsored by TheFireStore. Learn more about getting the gear you need at prices you can afford by visiting TheFireStore.

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