In the aftermath of a major disaster, a community’s resources may be stretched to—or beyond—their limits. Luckily, there may be outside assistance available from the federal government, the state, or other communities. Each community’s post-disaster plan should do everything it can to incorporate outside help if it is available. Consider creating “mutual aid” regional agreements with nearby communities, especially those out of the coastal zone that may be less likely to be damaged by coastal storms.
Your emergency management coordinator should familiarize him- or herself with the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) resources and procedures (e.g., who to contact with reports of damage or assistance needs as they arise during a storm).
Contact the Office of Coastal Protection and Restoration and the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources’ Coastal Zone Management to discuss how they can assist your community after a disaster.