April 25, 2024

Podcast: Wildfire: From Little Embers to Big Flames

With more than $40 billion in insured losses due to wildfire in just the past three years, understanding wildfire threats to homes and families is vital. This episode offers an in-depth conversation about the continuing toll of wildfire losses across the United States, making it clear that there is STILL more to do. You can do your part by participating in the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Wildfire Community Preparedness Day on Saturday, May 4.

Thanks to the generous support from National Wildfire Preparedness Day sponsor State Farm, 150 communities received project funding awards to support activities aimed at reducing potential loss of life, property, and natural resources to wildfire.

Michele Steinberg

Please join me and my guest Michele Steinberg, Wildfire Division Director with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). We discuss the Outthink Wildfire Initiative, wildfire mitigation, defensible space, and the importance of wildfire prevention.

Topics:

  • Vis-a-vis Nature: How and where to build before paying for development and disasters (3:20)
  • Firewise: Dependent on Forest Service grants, now partners for preparedness campaign (5:20)
  • Typical Wildfires: What does and doesn’t make wildfire a risk? (7:09)
  • Embers Ignite: Dry leaves that accumulate and pile up in corners and gutters do damage (9:10)
  • Wildfire Mitigation: Protect your home before because nobody will be there with a hose (10:50)
  • Effective Measures: Make sure home envelope and exterior is ignition resistant (12:25)
  • What’s fuel?: Pine needles, leaves, trees, and homes – no fuel means no fire (16:46)
  • First Saturday in May: Wildfire Community Prep Day to spread awareness, reduce risk (22:46)
  • Outthink Wildfire Initiative: Wildfires are going to happen and will not be extinguished (24:51)
  • Mitigate Risk/Retrofit: Use and enforce sensible building codes and land use standards (29:37)
  • House/Structure Fire vs. Wildfire: 37% of fire responders are trained, only ⅔ have PPE (34:17)

I hope you enjoy this podcast episode and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, share, and provide a review on iTunes. Don’t miss these helpful resources and links too:

Michele Steinberg on LinkedIn

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

NFPA Firewise Program

Wildfire Community Prep Day

Outthink Wildfire Initiative

Healthy Forest Restoration Act

FEMA

Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

FLASH Videos

National Disaster Resilience Conference

Just in case you missed our previous Strong Homes, Safe Families! episodes:

  1. #HurricaneStrong and the 2020 Season feat. National Hurricane Center Director Ken Graham
  2. The Scoop on Hurricane Shutters feat. Tim Robinson, Managing Partner of Global Protection Products and President of the International Hurricane Protection Association
  3. Skills + Supplies Today = Safety and Survival Tomorrow feat. Sean Reilly, District Manager for Lowe’s along North and South Carolina coast-between Myrtle Beach and Morehead City
  4. #HurricaneStrong Home Hacks that Save Time and Money feat. Bill Ferimer, Lowe’s Store Manager in Wilmington, North Carolina
  5. Have an Insurance Checkup and Make Your Policy #HurricaneStrong feat. Amanda Chase, State Farm Insurance Agent in Winter Park, Florida
  6. Take Steps Today for a Smooth Hurricane Claim Process Tomorrow feat. Elizabeth Gulick, VP of Claims Operations for USAA
  7. Dr. Anne Cope on Science That Makes Us #HurricaneStrong feat. Anne Cope, Ph.D., PE, Chief Engineer at the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS)
  8. Ready, Set, ShakeOut! Feat. Mark Benthien, Director of Communication, Education, and Outreach at the Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC)
  9. Ending the Season #HurricaneStrong, a Conversation with Dr. Rick Knabb, On-Air Hurricane Expert and Tropical Program Manager for The Weather Channel
  10. Building Codes Save Study with FEMA’s Ed Laatsch, Director – Safety, Planning, and Building Science Division of the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration (FIMA), Risk Management Directorate – Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
  11. Top Ten Tips for Disaster Safety in 2021 feat. Leslie Chapman-Henderson, President and CEO, Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)
  12. FEMA’s Amanda Siok on How Building Codes and Planning Can Create a Resilient Alaska, feat. Amanda Siok, Earthquake, Tsunami, and Volcano Program Manager for FEMA Region X in Seattle
  13. WX Apps, Space Gadgets, and Tech Talk, feat. Mark Taylor, Head of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships, MyRadar 
  14. #TornadoStrong-How One Decision Saved a Family, feat. Kevin & Sarabeth Harrison FLASH Leadership Partners & Tornado Survivors
February 13, 2024

Federal Alliance for Safe Homes Names Mike Buresh 2024 National Weatherperson of the Year

On Friday, February 2 (aka Groundhog Day), we had a blast surprising Action News JAX Mike Buresh for his selection as 2024 National Weatherperson of the Year. Mike’s commitment to excellence and to bringing resilience knowledge to his viewers is inspiring and consistent with outstanding weather professionals across the nation.

Mike describes himself as not just a weather expert but a “weatherholic” whose lifelong passion for meteorology began in his early years in rural Iowa.

After graduating from Iowa State University in 1987, Mike earned the American Meteorological Society’s “Seal of Approval” and has gained a reputation for his precise and timely weather forecasts. His career highlights include providing accurate warnings and tracking information for weather events, including tornadoes, waterspouts, floods, and local tropical cyclones.

Our NWP award committee cited Mike’s enduring support of the resilience cause as central to his selection. As with previous honorees, his commitment to strengthening homes and safeguarding families aligns with his role as a trusted source of information during severe weather events. Thousands of Jacksonville area residents commented on his commitment to keeping them informed and prepared for weather of all kinds.

More than 7,500 of the 24,000 votes for Mike included favorable comments. Here is a sampling:

  • As an emergency manager in Mike’s viewing area, he truly goes above and beyond to be a response partner and a genuine part of this community. Mike has augmented my annual pre Hurricane Season training regimen, been a guest speaker at countless regional conferences, and if all of that wasn’t enough, he is also a staunch champion of the children’s cancer fundraising efforts. Mike is genuine – the real deal. He is fully vested in his community and goes the extra mile to make those around him better!
  • Mike’s passion for accurate forecasting and his care for and concern for the safety of his viewing audience is evident every time he takes the air. He is the consummate professional and a great human!
  • I was raised in Buffalo, NY, where accurate weather information can be the difference between life and death. Once I moved to Jax and saw Mike Buresh handle several major weather events, including Irma, I greatly appreciated his ability to be precise with his information. He has most assuredly saved lives during several severe weather events here in the First Coast.

Since the award announcement, many social media users have reacted and applauded his selection as well.

  • @MikeFirstAlert truly deserves every ounce of this praise and then some. Congratulations on winning this national honor! Thank you for sharing your gifts and genuine heart with us all! We love and appreciate you, Mike! @FederalAlliance @CoxMediaGrp #firstalertwx @ActionNewsJax
  • Congratulations!!! Well deserved. I’ve been watching Jacksonville TV weathercasts since George Winterling’s days, and you are among the best, sir. ☔️ 🌞
  • Congratulations to my former fellow meteorology student from 40 years ago; I am so proud of this acknowledgment! Thank you for sharing your vulnerability!!!!!
  • Congratulations on such a special honor. Making a successful career out of a childhood interest is more than most of us do & something to be applauded. We’re all happy you followed your dreams. 🌞⛅️🌧️😎

Our 2024 finalists included Dr. Phil Klotzbach, Research Scientist – Colorado State University (CSU); Bryan Norcross, Meteorologist and Hurricane Specialist – FOX Weather; Nicondra Norwood, Meteorologist – FOX 8 WVUE; and William (Bill) Read, Meteorologist and former Director – National Hurricane Center.

Nominators cited the finalists for outstanding leadership through standout forecasting, education, and life-saving information during extreme weather events. All received high marks from award voters for their contributions to the cause of disaster safety and resilience.

Past National Weatherperson of the Year award winners include:

  • 2014 – Jim Cantore, On-Camera Meteorologist, and Co-Host, “AMHQ” – The Weather Channel
  • 2015 – Max Mayfield, former National Hurricane Center Director
  • 2016 – Alex Garcia, Chief Meteorologist – KABB-TV, San Antonio, TX
  • 2017 – Dr. Richard Knabb, Hurricane Expert & Tropical Program Manager – The Weather Channel
  • 2018 – Ada Monzón, Chief Meteorologist, AMS Fellow – CBM-WIPR-TV, Puerto Rico
  • 2019 – James Spann, Chief Meteorologist – ABC 33/40, Birmingham, AL
  • 2020 – Joe Snedeker, Morning Meteorologist – WNEP Newswatch 16, Scranton, PA
  • 2021 – Ginger Zee, Chief Meteorologist – ABC News
  • 2022 – Ken Graham, Director – National Weather Service
  • 2023 – Matthew Cappucci, Meteorologist – MyRadar, Capital Weather Gang

We established this award to coincide with the celebration of National Weatherperson’s Day on February 5, the birthday of the pioneering weather observer John Jeffries. Jeffries’ work in the 1780s paved the way for many aspects of meteorology today.

Make sure to bookmark this link and be ready to vote for the 2025 National Weatherperson of the Year in December.

 

 

 

 

May 25, 2023

Podcast: Celebrating Building Safety Month – It Starts with You!

In May, I had the pleasure of hosting a Building Safety Month podcast with two special guests from our Founding and Legacy Partner agency, FEMA. You will enjoy hearing from Joseph Chappell, Outreach & Communication, Building Science Branch, and Dr. Pataya Scott, Civil Engineer, Earthquake and Wind Programs Branch, as we get to know them and explore building safety.

This podcast, in honor of 2023 Building Safety Month, offers a discussion of codes (of course), the international campaign celebrated each May, the role of emergency managers, advances in tornado safety, and a bit of history too.

I hope you enjoy this episode that you can access by clicking here. Don’t forget to send us your ideas for future interviews, and Happy Building Safety Month.

 

August 17, 2022

Podcast: Hurricane Andrew – A “Boots on the Ground” Story

Thirty years ago this week, I was busy planning to travel as part of an insurance catastrophe response team. We were trained and ready to go, but I never expected my deployment to become an 18-month assignment to South Florida.

 I wasn’t alone. Few were truly ready for the enormity of Hurricane Andrew and the Category Five winds that caused total devastation to nearly 50,000 homes and damage to 108,000 more. The deadly storm disrupted and redirected life for so many. For my part, it forever established my passion for helping people survive and become resilient in the face of disasters by building our homes right the first time.

Please join me and John Zarrella, former CNN correspondent, as we reflect on Hurricane Andrew that struck on August 24, 1992. It’s been thirty years. What was it like on the ground? What has changed? Are we stronger today? What is the unfinished business of our movement?

 

 

Thirty years ago, Andrew roared ashore after decades of low hurricane activity leaving South Florida residents unprepared and in shock as they coped with the devastating effects. The storm killed and injured many and caused damage to thousands of homes and businesses. Hurricane Andrew revealed weaknesses in critical community functions and inspired modernization of how we prepare for and respond to disasters from nearly all aspects, including communications, emergency management, insurance, telecommunications, utility provision, weather forecasting technology, and more.

One of the most significant impacts is how it caused us to rethink how we build our homes in the face of hurricanes. Today, we emphasize better building codes with standards derived from enhanced engineering research. We strive for more consistent code enforcement. These two goals caused the genesis of our organization, Federal Alliance for Safe Homes, Inc. (FLASH), with the mission of strengthening homes and safeguarding families from disasters of all kinds.

Much has changed and improved in the last 30 years, especially technology and tools, but critical work remains. Enjoy this discussion with two veterans of one of the costliest natural disasters in U.S. history and learn how you can join us to ensure we’re ready for the inevitable storms ahead.

Topics Include:

  • John’s background in news and personal Hurricane Andrew experience as a lifelong resident of Miami (2:39)
  • Leslie’s role and Hurricane Andrew experience as part of the insurance industry catastrophe response (6:07)
  • Theater of Operations – Conditions on the Ground (7:23)
    • Reporting Challenges: difficulties delivering coverage from the field (7:47)
    • Adjusting Thousands of Insurance Claims: what’s different today (12:24)
    • Lessons Learned: emergency management system (25:45)
    • FLASH Creation: building code advocates (30:06)
    • Communication Technology: then and now, barriers and solutions (32:43)
    • Track Forecasting: the ability to know what to expect (35:24)
  • What is the “Unfinished” Business of the Disaster Safety Movement (37:25)
    • Lessons learned post-disaster (38:00)
    • Building codes (38:14)
    • Public acceptance (40:37)

I hope you enjoy this podcast episode and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, share, and provide a review on iTunes. Don’t miss these helpful resources and links too:

John Zarrella

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

#HurricaneStrong

Homeowner’s Insurance Guide

InspectToProtect.org

FEMA Building Codes Strategy

Tale of Two Homes

Buyer’s Guide to Resilient Homes

July 21, 2022 Link

Podcast: Building Codes, Strong Roots for Resilience

How do building codes affect disaster safety and resilience? Can we affordably build structures that withstand the test of time? Everyone deserves a safe place to live, so how do building codes help achieve that goal?

John Ingargiola, Lead Physical Scientist – FEMA

Please join me and my guest John Ingargiola, Lead Physical Scientist at Founding and Legacy Partner FEMA, as we tackle these questions and more. John’s passion for strong building codes and his long-time service make for an engaging conversation.

Listen to the Building Codes, Strong Roots for Resilience podcast episode here.

Topics Include:

  • John’s educational and professional background (00:52)
  • Building Science Guidance: Stronger codes and standards (10:11)
  • Five Reasons: Why building codes are important (10:53)
  • How can stakeholders get consumers to support building codes? (13:17)
  • Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) Program (20:22)
  • The Recipe Book: Consensus standards inform key design considerations (22:50)
  • Innovation: How can we expedite building code improvements? (24:03)
  • FEMA’s Building Codes Strategy (32:18)

Editors Note: This podcast was recorded prior to the landmark National Initiative to Advance Building Codes announcement.

I hope you enjoy this podcast episode, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, share, and provide a review on iTunes. Don’t miss these helpful resources and links too:

Leslie Chapman-Henderson on LinkedIn

John Ingargiola on LinkedIn

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

Emergency Management Institute (EMI)

Building Codes Strategy | FEMA.gov

FACT SHEET: Biden-Harris Administration Launches Initiative to Modernize Building Codes, Improve Climate Resilience, and Reduce Energy Costs | The White House

Inspect to Protect

FEMA – Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) Program

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

FLASH Videos

National Disaster Resilience Conference

 

February 17, 2021

Podcast: WX Apps, Space Gadgets, and Tech Talk

Mark Taylor

With 52 million downloads, the wildly popular MyRadar app is a weather alerting leader, and this podcast with MyRadar’s Mark Taylor delivers insights for weather geeks of all kinds. From the early days of polygons and maps to the state of weather tech, Mark and guest host John Zarrella cover all the bases. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with two former national broadcast journalists who serve as FLASH board advisors and help advance the cause of disaster resilience.

Topics Include:

  • Weather Media and Technology: Passion and interest in weather—it’s no joke (0:44)
  • Weather and Space Gadgets: Marriage of technology to get the forecast right (2:26)
  • Weather Resources: Evolution of data, information, and satellites (2:47)
  • Innovation and Accomplishments: Take vision and turn it into a real product (3:10)
    • 2006: Built first interactive weather map with real-time data and hurricane tracker
    • 2010: Added precise polygon alerts and warnings using GPS and smartphones
  • FLASH: Fueled passion for resilience and willingness to volunteer with dedicated focus (5:07)
  • MyRadar: Powerful, accurate radar/weather prediction app w/over 52-million downloads (6:21)
  • Vision: Weather has an impact, add radar for tracking to make it better (7:01)
  • Mission: Provide information that matters to you where you are in a timely manner (7:36)
  • Features: Focus on more than the weather—alerts, temperatures, forecasts, and videos (8:41)
  • Educational Platform: What’s the difference between a watch and warning? (10:22)
  • Big Data: Too much information, voices, mixed messages, and trusted sources (11:46)
  • New Tech Investments: Sophisticated satellites, nowcasting, and road weather (15:53)
  • 2021 Goals: Continue to evolve the application, company, and platform (19:46)

I hope you enjoy this podcast episode and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, share, and provide a review on iTunes. Don’t miss these helpful resources and links too:

MyRadar

Mark Taylor on LinkedIn

Andy Green on LinkedIn

John Zarrella

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)

National Hurricane Center (NHC)

No Code. No Confidence – Inspect2Protect (building code resource website for consumers)

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

FLASH Videos

#HurricaneStrong

Just in case you missed our previous Strong Homes, Safe Families! episodes:

  1. #HurricaneStrong and the 2020 Season feat. National Hurricane Center Director Ken Graham
  2. The Scoop on Hurricane Shutters feat. Tim Robinson, Managing Partner of Global Protection Products and President of the International Hurricane Protection Association
  3. Skills + Supplies Today = Safety and Survival Tomorrow feat. Sean Reilly, District Manager for Lowe’s along North and South Carolina coast-between Myrtle Beach and Morehead City
  4. #HurricaneStrong Home Hacks that Save Time and Money feat. Bill Ferimer, Lowe’s Store Manager in Wilmington, North Carolina
  5. Have an Insurance Checkup and Make Your Policy #HurricaneStrong feat. Amanda Chase, State Farm Insurance Agent in Winter Park, Florida
  6. Take Steps Today for a Smooth Hurricane Claim Process Tomorrow feat. Elizabeth Gulick, VP of Claims Operations for USAA
  7. Dr. Anne Cope on Science That Makes Us #HurricaneStrong feat. Anne Cope, Ph.D., PE, Chief Engineer at the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS)
  8. Ready, Set, ShakeOut! Feat. Mark Benthien, Director of Communication, Education, and Outreach at the Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC)
  9. Ending the Season #HurricaneStrong, a Conversation with Dr. Rick Knabb, On-Air Hurricane Expert and Tropical Program Manager for The Weather Channel
  10. Building Codes Save Study with FEMA’s Ed Laatsch, Director – Safety, Planning, and Building Science Division of the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration (FIMA), Risk Management Directorate – Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
  11. Top Ten Tips for Disaster Safety in 2021 feat. Leslie Chapman-Henderson, President and CEO, Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)
  12. FEMA’s Amanda Siok on How Building Codes and Planning Can Create a Resilient Alaska, feat. Amanda Siok, Earthquake, Tsunami, and Volcano Program Manager for FEMA Region X in Seattle
January 12, 2021

Podcast: FEMA’s Amanda Siok on How Building Codes and Planning Can Create a Resilient Alaska

Amanda Siok

This episode offers a dive into Alaska’s earthquake history, building code progress, resilience strategies, and much more with self-described rock nerd, Amanda Siok. Amanda is the Earthquake, Tsunami, and Volcano Program Manager for FEMA Region X in Seattle. Her perspectives on disaster safety through strong buildings and best practices offer a fresh take on our shared goals to create disaster-resilient communities.

Topics Include:

  • About Amanda (00:35)
  • Geology: Science behind what creates and collapses beautiful areas and structures (1:31)
  • Natural Hazards: Work with communities, tribes, and governments to understand vulnerability (3:10)
  • Conditions: Logistical access issues in Alaska make it challenging to adapt, meet needs (4:53)
  • Earthquakes, Tsunamis, Volcanoes: Natural disasters/hazards shaped Alaska’s history (8:10)
  • 1964 vs. 2018 Alaskan Earthquakes: Differences in magnitude, duration, and destruction (9:49)
  • Building Codes: Recipe for resilient construction, visual evidence to build it right the first time (13:30)
  • BRIC: FEMA encourages jurisdictions to adopt, implement, and enforce building codes (17:42)
  • Public/Private Partnerships: Communities come together to advance disaster resilience (22:06)

I hope you enjoy this podcast episode, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, share, and provide a review on iTunes. Don’t miss these helpful resources and links too:

FEMA Region X

Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) Grant Program

Shaking of Atwood Building, M7.0 November 30, 2018 (Anchorage Earthquake)

Structural Engineering Association of Alaska (SEAAK)

Ready Business – QuakeSmart Toolkit 

Alaska Professional Design Council (APDC)

Alaska Seismic Hazards Safety Commission

Geotechnical Advisory Commission

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

Just in case you missed our previous Strong Homes, Safe Families! episodes:

  1. #HurricaneStrong and the 2020 Season feat. National Hurricane Center Director Ken Graham
  2. The Scoop on Hurricane Shutters feat. Tim Robinson, Managing Partner of Global Protection Products and President of the International Hurricane Protection Association
  3. Skills + Supplies Today = Safety and Survival Tomorrow feat. Sean Reilly, District Manager for Lowe’s along North and South Carolina coast-between Myrtle Beach and Morehead City
  4. #HurricaneStrong Home Hacks that Save Time and Money feat. Bill Ferimer, Lowe’s Store Manager in Wilmington, North Carolina
  5. Have an Insurance Checkup and Make Your Policy #HurricaneStrong feat. Amanda Chase, State Farm Insurance Agent in Winter Park, Florida
  6. Take Steps Today for a Smooth Hurricane Claim Process Tomorrow feat. Elizabeth Gulick, VP of Claims Operations for USAA
  7. Dr. Anne Cope on Science That Makes Us #HurricaneStrong feat. Anne Cope, Ph.D., PE, Chief Engineer at the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS)
  8. Ready, Set, ShakeOut! Feat. Mark Benthien, Director of Communication, Education, and Outreach at the Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC)
  9. Ending the Season #HurricaneStrong, a Conversation with Dr. Rick Knabb, On-Air Hurricane Expert and Tropical Program Manager for The Weather Channel
  10. Building Codes Save Study with FEMA’s Ed Laatsch, Director – Safety, Planning, and Building Science Division of the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration (FIMA), Risk Management Directorate – Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
  11. Top Ten Tips for Disaster Safety in 2021 feat. Leslie Chapman-Henderson, President and CEO, Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)
December 23, 2020

Podcast: Top Ten Tips for Disaster Safety in 2021

For our latest podcast, we turned the tables. John Zarrella, JZ Media, former CNN Correspondent, and one of our valued board advisors hosted me to talk about our top ten affordable, simple, do-it-yourself (DIY) ways to strengthen your home as the new year begins. I hope you find these useful and be on the lookout as John will be back with us to guest host again soon.

Topics Include:

  • About Leslie (1:53)
  • Know your risk (usually flooding) by identifying disaster history in your community (8:24)
  • Earthquake: Fire following shaking, turn on/off gas valve by buying affordable wrench (9:45)
  • Flood: Wherever it rains, it can flood; buying flood insurance policy early is essential (12:39)
  • Hurricane: Make soffit covers tight, well-installed, and reinforced using caulking/sealant (16:32)
  • Tornado: Build or buy an affordable safe room or shelter for near-absolute protection (22:05)
  • Wildfire: Create defensible space around your home by clearing out/getting rid of debris (25:06)
  • Wildfire/Flood: Clean gutters to move water using safe, easy to use, affordable tools (28:44)
  • Fire: Create, document, digitally store, and update home inventory to file an insurance claim (31:05)
  • Blizzard: Use inexpensive foam, dome, and drip insulation to prevent pipes from freezing (29:23)
  • Building Code Data: Identify building codes to know how your home will perform in perils (34:26)

I hope you enjoy this podcast episode and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, share, and provide a review on iTunes. Don’t miss these helpful resources and links too:

Top Ten Tips for Disaster Safety in 2021
The National Flood Insurance Program: FloodSmart
Strengthen Your Soffits
No Code. No Confidence. – Insepct2Protect.org
Leslie Chapman-Henderson
Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)
#HurricaneStrong 
FLASH Videos

Just in case you missed our previous Strong Homes, Safe Families! episodes:

  1. #HurricaneStrong and the 2020 Season feat. National Hurricane Center Director Ken Graham
  2. The Scoop on Hurricane Shutters feat. Tim Robinson, Managing Partner of Global Protection Products and President of the International Hurricane Protection Association
  3. Skills + Supplies Today = Safety and Survival Tomorrow feat. Sean Reilly, District Manager for Lowe’s along North and South Carolina coast-between Myrtle Beach and Morehead City
  4. #HurricaneStrong Home Hacks that Save Time and Money feat. Bill Ferimer, Lowe’s Store Manager in Wilmington, North Carolina
  5. Have an Insurance Checkup and Make Your Policy #HurricaneStrong feat. Amanda Chase, State Farm Insurance Agent in Winter Park, Florida
  6. Take Steps Today for a Smooth Hurricane Claim Process Tomorrow feat. Elizabeth Gulick, VP of Claims Operations for USAA
  7. Dr. Anne Cope on Science That Makes Us #HurricaneStrong feat. Anne Cope, Ph.D., PE, Chief Engineer at the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS)
  8. Ready, Set, ShakeOut! Feat. Mark Benthien, Director of Communication, Education, and Outreach at the Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC)
  9. Ending the Season #HurricaneStrong, a Conversation with Dr. Rick Knabb, On-Air Hurricane Expert and Tropical Program Manager for The Weather Channel
  10. Building Codes Save Study with FEMA’s Ed Laatsch, Director – Safety, Planning, and Building Science Division of the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration (FIMA), Risk Management Directorate – Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
December 18, 2020

New Podcast: Building Codes Save Study with FEMA’s Ed Laatsch

We often say that building codes are the foundation for resilience, and today’s new podcast reinforces that message.

This week’s Strong Homes, Safe Families! guest is Edward (Ed) M. Laatsch, Director – Safety, Planning, and Building Science Division of the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration (FIMA), Risk Management Directorate – Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Ed Laatsch, FEMA

Ed is a FLASH Founding and Legacy Partner, one of the nation’s leading experts on building science, and a true champion for resilience.

During this interview, we talk about the who, what, when, and why of the brand new Building Codes Save: A Nationwide Study of Loss Prevention.

Topics Include:

  • Ed’s Background (1:02)
  • Mission: Support and develop disaster-resistant building codes to make the world safer (3:40)
  • The Study: Topline Description (5:26)
  • Flood, Wind, and Earthquake Perils: Adopt and enforce building codes across the nation (5:58)
  • Improved Building Codes: Benefits of Adoption and Enforcement (6:24)
  • At-Risk Areas: By avoiding losses with improved building codes, what has been gained? (6:49)
  • Community Case Studies: 18-million parcels viewed to mitigate disaster threats (7:11)
  • Resource Challenges: Building codes developed/regulated at the state, not federal level (9:23)
  • Prioritize: Before disaster strikes, make difficult decisions (10:59)
  • Underserved Communities: Disproportionate harm, disadvantaged ln high-risk areas (13:14)
  • Barriers: Building, repair, and costs to comply with improved building codes (15:23)
  • Storytelling: Make people aware of building codes, encourage others to take action (19:59)

I hope you enjoy this podcast episode, bonus content, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, share, and provide a review on iTunes. Don’t miss these helpful resources and links too:

Just in case you missed our previous Strong Homes, Safe Families! episodes:

  1. #HurricaneStrong and the 2020 Season feat. National Hurricane Center Director Ken Graham
  2. The Scoop on Hurricane Shutters feat. Tim Robinson, Managing Partner of Global Protection Products and President of the International Hurricane Protection Association
  3. Skills + Supplies Today = Safety and Survival Tomorrow feat. Sean Reilly, District Manager for Lowe’s along North and South Carolina coast-between Myrtle Beach and Morehead City
  4. #HurricaneStrong Home Hacks that Save Time and Money feat. Bill Ferimer, Lowe’s Store Manager in Wilmington, North Carolina
  5. Have an Insurance Checkup and Make Your Policy #HurricaneStrong feat. Amanda Chase, State Farm Insurance Agent in Winter Park, Florida
  6. Take Steps Today for a Smooth Hurricane Claim Process Tomorrow feat. Elizabeth Gulick, VP of Claims Operations for USAA
  7. Dr. Anne Cope on Science That Makes Us #HurricaneStrong feat. Anne Cope, Ph.D., PE, Chief Engineer at the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS)
  8. Ready, Set, ShakeOut! Feat. Mark Benthien, Director of Communication, Education, and Outreach at the Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC)
  9. Ending the Season #HurricaneStrong, a Conversation with Dr. Rick Knabb, On-Air Hurricane Expert and Tropical Program Manager for The Weather Channel
November 30, 2020

New Podcast: Ending the Season #HurricaneStrong, a Conversation with Dr. Rick Knabb

The 2020 Atlantic hurricane season is over today, and what a season it was. The record-setting, six-month period delivered 30 named storms, topping the previous 2005 record of 28.

Dr. Rick Knabb

It is only fitting that my guest this week for Strong Homes, Safe Families! is Dr. Rick Knabb, the On-Air Hurricane Expert and Tropical Program Manager for The Weather Channel, one of our longtime resilience champions, and 2017 National Weatherperson of the Year. 

Our interview features the National Hurricane Resilience Initiative – #HurricaneStrong, including how his passion helped inspire the effort and how he teamed up with FLASH to co-create it.

We cover a range of topics, including do’s and don’ts, when it comes to hurricane safety, resilience, building codes, and plans for the future of hurricane season public outreach. Dr. Rick Knabb’s contributions to the cause of hurricane resilience are immeasurable. When you listen to this podcast, you will experience the authentic passion he brings to our cause.   

  • Catching the Hurricane Bug: Rick’s passion for the weather – a combination of scientific interest and rational fear (1:16)
  • Live and Learn: Do’s and don’ts before, during, and after hurricanes (1:40)
  • Real-World Resilience: Never enough to talk about the weather; we have to do something (3:45)
  • The Five Pillars of #HurricaneStrong: Personal Safety, Family Preparedness, Financial Security, Damage Prevention, and Community Service (7:06) 
  • Life Essentials: First Aid kits, water, non-perishable foods, and medications (10:38)
  • Insurance Check-up: Think and plan or lack of resources may lead to financial ruin (12:08) (Take Steps Today for a Smooth Hurricane Claim Process Tomorrow and Have an Insurance Checkup and Make Your Policy #HurricaneStrong)
  • Reality Check: The limitations of government assistance make a case for adequate  homeowner’s and flood coverage (13:29)
  • Building Codes: Beyond aesthetics, what’s behind the walls of your business and home? (14:47)
  • Community Connection: The most rewarding part of #HurricaneStrong is helping those less fortunate before, during, and after storms (20:13)
  • The #HurricaneStrong Pose: Messaging must be educational, entertaining, and engaging for kids, too (25:11)
  • What’s the future of #HurricaneStrong? (29:48)

Click here to listen to this week’s Strong Homes, Safe Families! podcast episode, and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, share, and provide a review on iTunes. Don’t miss these helpful resources and links too:

Just in case you missed our previous Strong Homes, Safe Families! episodes:

  1. #HurricaneStrong and the 2020 Season feat. National Hurricane Center Director Ken Graham
  2. The Scoop on Hurricane Shutters feat. Tim Robinson, Managing Partner of Global Protection Products and President of the International Hurricane Protection Association
  3. Skills + Supplies Today = Safety and Survival Tomorrow feat. Sean Reilly, District Manager for Lowe’s along North and South Carolina coast-between Myrtle Beach and Morehead City
  4. #HurricaneStrong Home Hacks that Save Time and Money feat. Bill Ferimer, Lowe’s Store Manager in Wilmington, North Carolina
  5. Have an Insurance Checkup and Make Your Policy #HurricaneStrong feat. Amanda Chase, State Farm Insurance Agent in Winter Park, Florida
  6. Take Steps Today for a Smooth Hurricane Claim Process Tomorrow feat. Elizabeth Gulick, VP of Claims Operations for USAA
  7. Dr. Anne Cope on Science That Makes Us #HurricaneStrong feat. Anne Cope, Ph.D., PE, Chief Engineer at the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS)
  8. Ready, Set, ShakeOut! Feat. Mark Benthien, Director of Communication, Education and Outreach at the Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC)