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Strong Homes, Safe Families!

Strong Homes, Safe Families!

By FLASH

Who We Are

The nonprofit Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH®) is the country’s leading consumer advocate for strengthening homes and safeguarding families from natural and manmade disasters.
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FEMA’s Amanda Siok on How Building Codes and Planning Can Create a Resilient Alaska

Strong Homes, Safe Families!Dec 31, 2020

00:00
29:01
 Celebrating Building Safety Month 2023: It Starts with You!

Celebrating Building Safety Month 2023: It Starts with You!

This episode is hosted by FLASH President and CEO Leslie Chapman-Henderson with guests Joseph Chappell, Outreach & Communication, Building Science Branch Planning, Safety & Building Science Division, Risk Management Directorate, FIMA, Resilience, FEMA and Dr. Pataya Scott, Civil Engineer, Earthquake and Wind Programs Branch, FIMA Resilience, FEMA.

In honor of 2023 Building Safety Month, they share insights, experiences, and practical tips as they provide us with a comprehensive understanding of the international campaign celebrated each May to raise awareness about building codes, building safety, and more.

 

Topics Include:

● Guest introductions

o  Dr. PatayaScott (0:29 - 1:35)

o  Joseph Chappell (1:55 - 2:52)

● What is Building Safety Month and why it is important to the homeowner, renter, and consumer? (3:19 - 6:17)

● What are building codes, and how do they protect people? (6:51 - 8:12)

● Building beyond the minimum code (8:14 - 8:47)

● Building code standards (8:51 - 11:06)

● How emergency management ties into the advancement of building codes (11:15 - 14:06)

● FEMA Building Codes Strategy (15:11 - 17:38)

● Tornado safety: shelters and saferooms (17:46 - 21:05)

● Difference between a tornado shelter and tornado saferoom (21:08 - 25:19)

● Building Safety Month wish (25:20 - 27:37  


Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Email: info@flash.org

Toll-free: (877) 221-SAFE (7233)

May 24, 202328:46
Hurricane Andrew: A “Boots on the Ground” Story

Hurricane Andrew: A “Boots on the Ground” Story

In this episode, host Leslie Chapman Henderson, President and CEO of the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH), and guest John Zarrella, President of JZ Media and former CNN correspondent, revisit their experiences before, during, and after Category Five Hurricane Andrew struck South Florida on August 24, 1992.


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

● 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)


Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Email: info@flash.org

Toll-free: (877) 221-SAFE (7233)

Aug 17, 202249:21
Trailer - Hurricane Andrew: A “Boots on the Ground” Story

Trailer - Hurricane Andrew: A “Boots on the Ground” Story

In this episode, host Leslie Chapman Henderson, President and CEO of the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH), and guest John Zarrella, President of JZ Media and former CNN correspondent, revisit their experiences before, during, and after Category Five Hurricane Andrew struck South Florida on August 24, 1992.


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.



Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Email: info@flash.org

Toll-free: (877) 221-SAFE (7233)

Aug 17, 202200:19
Building Codes, Strong Roots for Resilience

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?


In this episode, Leslie Chapman-Henderson, President and CEO, Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH), and John Ingargiola, Lead Physical Scientist at Founding and Legacy Partner FEMA, tackle these questions and more.


John's passion for strong building codes and his long-time service make for an engaging conversation.


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.


Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Email: info@flash.org

Toll-free: (877) 221-SAFE (7233)

Jul 20, 202236:44
Trailer - Building Codes, Strong Roots for Resilience

Trailer - 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?


In this episode, Leslie Chapman-Henderson, President and CEO, Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH), and John Ingargiola, Lead Physical Scientist at Founding and Legacy Partner FEMA, tackle these questions and more.


John's passion for strong building codes and his long-time service make for an engaging conversation.


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


Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Email: info@flash.org

Toll-free: (877) 221-SAFE (7233)

Jul 20, 202200:33
Wildfire: From Little Embers to Big Flames

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, this Saturday, May 1.


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.


Please join our guest Michele Steinberg, Wildfire Division Director with NFPA. We discuss the new Outthink Wildfire Initiative, wildfire mitigation, defensible space, and the importance of wildfire prevention.



Topics Include:

● 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)


Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Email: info@flash.org

Toll-free: (877) 221-SAFE (7233)

Apr 29, 202138:22
Trailer - Wildfire: From Little Embers to Big Flames

Trailer - 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, this Saturday, May 1.


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.


Please join our guest Michele Steinberg, Wildfire Division Director with NFPA. We discuss the new Outthink Wildfire Initiative, wildfire mitigation, defensible space, and the importance of wildfire prevention.



Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Email: info@flash.org

Toll-free: (877) 221-SAFE (7233)

Apr 29, 202100:33
#TornadoStrong—How One Decision Saved a Family

#TornadoStrong—How One Decision Saved a Family

Some might recall ten years ago when a deadly tornado outbreak hit Alabama. One young family will never forget. That family is the Harrison’s. On April 27, 2011, they survived what NOAA dubbed “… the deadliest day for tornadoes in 75 years.” Since that day, they have shared their inspiring story to help prevent injuries and deaths from deadly extreme winds.

Please join our guest host, weather veteran, and chief meteorologist at ABC 33/40 James Spann along with FLASH Leadership partners and tornado survivors Kevin and Sarabeth Harrison as they recall their experience of survival, parental love, and the importance of a tornado safe room.



Topics:

● When and why build a safe room? Safety from storms when they occur (1:57)

● Was it a normal day in Athens? No, a bad storm was headed their way, be prepared (2:41)

● How did the family get a tornado warning? Watching the weather and radar broadcast (3:01)

● How much time did they have? Rushed into the safe room and closed the door
(3:19)

● What was it like in the safe room? Sound got louder and louder, then suddenly stopped (4:28)

● How long did it take for the tornado to pass through their property? 30 seconds (5:03)

● How did their children react? Followed their lead - stay calm and be prepared (5:43)

● How long did it take to get out of the safe room? Buried for 40 minutes due to debris (6:20)

● What did their property look like after the tornado hit? Everything else was destroyed (8:31)

● Where did they live while their new home was being built? Stayed in an apartment (9:34)

● Why was a certified, tested, and approved safe room built at the new house? FLASH (10:04)

● Lessons Learned: Be weather aware, get warnings, and take safety seriously (13:41)


Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Email: info@flash.org

Toll-free: (877) 221-SAFE (7233)


Links and Resources:

Tornado YouTube Playlist

Tornadoes: After the Storm - Important Tips

Tornadoes: Safe Rooms

Understand Tornado Alerts

Tornadoes: NOAA Weather Radio

Apr 23, 202119:02
WX Apps, Space Gadgets, and Tech Talk

WX Apps, Space Gadgets, and Tech Talk

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)


Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Email: info@flash.org

Toll-free: (877) 221-SAFE (7233)

Feb 17, 202125:04
Trailer - WX Apps, Space Gadgets, and Tech Talk
Feb 16, 202100:16
FEMA’s Amanda Siok on How Building Codes and Planning Can Create a Resilient Alaska
Dec 31, 202029:01
Trailer – FEMA’s Amanda Siok on How Building Codes and Planning Can Create a Resilient Alaska
Dec 31, 202000:16
Top Ten Tips for Disaster Safety in 2021
Dec 23, 202041:51
Trailer -Top Ten Tips for Disaster Safety in 2021
Dec 23, 202000:15
BONUS : What’s Next? -Building Codes Save Study with FEMA’s Ed Laatsch
Dec 18, 202001:22
BONUS: The Study Purpose -Building Codes Save Study with FEMA’s Ed Laatsch
Dec 18, 202001:23
BONUS: The Bottom Line -Building Codes Save Study with FEMA’s Ed Laatsch
Dec 18, 202003:27
Building Codes Save Study with FEMA’s Ed Laatsch
Dec 18, 202025:32
Trailer – Building Codes Save Study with FEMA’s Ed Laatsch
Dec 18, 202000:28
Ending the Season #HurricaneStrong, a Conversation with Dr. Rick Knabb
Nov 30, 202035:09
Trailer - Ending the Season #HurricaneStrong, a Conversation with Dr. Rick Knabb
Nov 30, 202000:29
Ready, Set, ShakeOut!
Sep 29, 202029:57
Trailer - Ready, Set, ShakeOut!
Sep 29, 202000:29
 Dr. Anne Cope on Science That Makes Us #HurricaneStrong
Jun 25, 202027:01
Trailer - Dr. Anne Cope on Science That Makes Us #HurricaneStrong
Jun 25, 202000:31
Take Steps Today for a Smooth Hurricane Claim Process Tomorrow
Jun 17, 202020:08
Trailer - Take Steps Today for a Smooth Hurricane Claim Process Tomorrow

Trailer - Take Steps Today for a Smooth Hurricane Claim Process Tomorrow

Hurricane season is here. Are you fully prepared by having the right insurance? Do you have a home inventory to go along with your policy? Did you know that a detailed written, photographic, or video inventory of your belongings is the most effective way to plan for a claim?

Jun 17, 202000:18
Have an Insurance Checkup and Make Your Policy #HurricaneStrong
Jun 16, 202023:47
Trailer - Have an Insurance Checkup and Make Your Policy #HurricaneStrong

Trailer - Have an Insurance Checkup and Make Your Policy #HurricaneStrong

Are you in the dark about what your insurance policy will provide after a hurricane? Did you know that you may have coverage for food that spoils when the power fails even if your home isn't damaged? Moreover, did you know that food spoilage coverage is often deductible-free?

Jun 16, 202000:31
#HurricaneStrong Home Hacks that Save Time and Money

#HurricaneStrong Home Hacks that Save Time and Money

Strengthening our homes for hurricane season to ensure damage prevention is more important than ever this year due to COVID-19 and the potential need for social distancing.


This week’s Strong Homes, Safe Families! podcast, checklists, and feature video provide information about affordable ways to get your home #HurricaneStrong, so you and your family are ready for the already-busy season. My guest expert for this podcast discussion is Bill Ferimer, Lowe’s Store Manager in Wilmington, North Carolina. This 15-minute discussion will get you well on your way to readiness.


Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

#HurricaneStrong

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Email: info@flash.org

Toll-free: (877) 221-SAFE (7233)


Jun 16, 202015:11
Trailer - #HurricaneStrong Home Hacks that Save Time and Money

Trailer - #HurricaneStrong Home Hacks that Save Time and Money

Strengthening our homes for hurricane season to ensure damage prevention is more important than ever this year due to COVID-19 and the potential need for social distancing.


Jun 16, 202000:20
Skills + Supplies Today = Safety and Survival Tomorrow
Jun 16, 202016:41
Trailer - Skills + Supplies Today = Safety and Survival Tomorrow
Jun 16, 202000:38
The Scoop on Hurricane Shutters

The Scoop on Hurricane Shutters



Before Mother Nature heads your way, are you prepared for hurricane season? Our guest for Episode Two on Strong Homes, Safe Families! is Tim Robinson, managing partner of Global Protection Products and president of the International Hurricane Protection Association. In this interview, Tim tells us everything you need to know to choose the right hurricane shutters for your home.

Topics Include:

● Opening Protection: Windows, glass doors, and older openings

● Code/Testing Requirements: Change is inevitable when building impact-rated products

● Two Test Types: Wind cycle and impact resistance to approve products

● Options: What are they? How are they mounted? How much do they cost?

- Galvanized steel vs. aluminum panel

- Clear or polycarbonate storm panel

- Fabric panel

- Accordion shutter

- Roll-up shutter

- Hinged-colonial or Bahama shutter

●  ROI: Insurance savings and discounts

● Lessons Learned No matter what shutter system is selected, maintain it regularly


Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)

#HurricaneStrong

Leslie Chapman-Henderson

Email: info@flash.org

Toll-free: (877) 221-SAFE (7233)

Jun 16, 202030:31
Trailer - The Scoop on Hurricane Shutters

Trailer - The Scoop on Hurricane Shutters

Before Mother Nature heads your way, are you prepared for hurricane season? Our guest for Episode Two on Strong Homes, Safe Families! is Tim Robinson, managing partner of Global Protection Products and president of the International Hurricane Protection Association. In this interview, Tim tells us everything you need to know to choose the right hurricane shutters for your home.

Jun 16, 202000:36
National Hurricane Center Director Ken Graham - Getting #HurricaneStrong Ahead of the 2020 Season

National Hurricane Center Director Ken Graham - Getting #HurricaneStrong Ahead of the 2020 Season

Are you prepared to protect your family and home before hurricane season hits? Will you be able to bounce back swiftly? Today’s guest is Ken Graham from the National Hurricane Center in Miami, and he has plenty of tips to stay safe.

Leslie Chapman-Henderson from Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) talks to Ken about the science, public policy, and practice of being better prepared for hurricanes.


Topics:

● Rising Water Evacuation: Why and when Ken decided to become a meteorologist

● Disaster Resilience: Bouncing back to recover quickly from a hurricane is possible

● Science: Meteorological breakthrough with track forecast and ability to narrow errors

● Public Policy: Best practices to be resilient by knowing who and when to evacuate

● Practice: Risk communication, perception, decision-making, and other human factors

● Tech Tools: People flee storms, but hurricane hunters use technology to collect data

● Preparation: Positive impact due to COVID-19 pandemic

May 05, 202029:13
Trailer - National Hurricane Center Director Ken Graham - Getting #HurricaneStrong Ahead of the 2020 Season

Trailer - National Hurricane Center Director Ken Graham - Getting #HurricaneStrong Ahead of the 2020 Season

Are you prepared to protect your family and home before hurricane season hits? Will you be able to bounce back swiftly?

May 05, 202000:45