Catalog of FEMA Wind, Flood, 

and Wildfire Publications, 

Training Courses, and 

Workshops

FEMA P-787 / Third Edition / January 2012 

FEMA Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration

These publications, courses, and workshops have been developed by the Building Science Branch of 

FEMA’s Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration (FIMA).

Please visit http://www.fema.gov/library to view or download publications.

Ordering Information

To order publications from this catalog, please call 1-800-480-2520 or fax 240-699-0525 (Monday 

− Friday 8:00 a.m. − 5:00 p.m., EST) or email to FEMA-Publications-Warehouse@dhs.gov. Please 

provide the title, item number, and quantity of each publication, along with your name, address, zip 

code, and daytime telephone number.

CONTENTS

ABOUT THIS CATALOG ............................................................................................................................................1

FEMA BUILDING SCIENCE BRANCH.........................................................................................................................1

BUILDING SCIENCE PUBLICATIONS.........................................................................................................................2

Design and Construction Guidance Publications..................................................................................................................2

Mitigation Assessment Team Reports ..................................................................................................................................9

Hurricanes ................................................................................................................................................................... 9

Tornadoes .................................................................................................................................................................. 14

Floods .................................................................................................................................................................... 15

Man-Made Hazards .................................................................................................................................................. 16

Risk Management Series ...................................................................................................................................................16

Technical Bulletins .............................................................................................................................................................17

Tools...................................................................................................................................................................................20

Brochures...........................................................................................................................................................................21

Protect Your Property or Business From Disaster Series ...................................................................................................22

Protect Your Property From All Natural Hazards ........................................................................................................ 22

Protect Your Property From Flooding......................................................................................................................... 23

Protect Your Property From High Winds..................................................................................................................... 23

TRAINING COURSES AND WORKSHOPS ................................................................................................................24

Table 1. Publications Included in This Catalog .....................................................................................................29

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Contents Table 1 – Publications
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

ABOUT THIS CATALOG

The Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA's) Building Science Branch has compiled this catalog of available FEMA wind, flood, and wildfire publications, training courses, 

and workshops. These materials are listed by FEMA publication number (see Table 1). The 

publications are also listed by subject areas (hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, wildfires) in order 

of publication date (the most recent first) in the text. See the inside cover of this document for 

ordering information. 

FEMA BUILDING SCIENCE BRANCH

The FEMA Building Science Branch provides 

technical services for the Federal Insurance 

and Mitigation Administration (FIMA). The 

branch develops and produces multi-hazard 

mitigation guidance that focuses on creating 

disaster-resilient communities to reduce loss of 

life and property. Building Science Branch activities include deploying Mitigation Assessment 

Teams to conduct post-disaster engineering investigations for both man-made and natural hazard 

events. Building Science takes a lead role in 

developing publications, guidance materials, tools, 

technical bulletins, and recovery advisories that 

incorporate the most up-to-date building codes, 

floodproofing requirements, seismic design standards, and wind design requirements for new 

construction and the repair of existing buildings. In addition to providing technical support for 

the development and adoption of model building codes and standards, the Building Science 

Branch provides technical support for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for public 

and private sector stakeholders, the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP), and the National Windstorm Impact Reduction Program (NWIRP), and pursues outreach 

strategies for communicating Building Science issues. 

Visit us at: http://www.fema.gov/rebuild/buildingscience.

For more information about any of the FEMA publications, please call the flood/wind helpline 

at (866) 927-2104 (toll free) or email: FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@dhs.gov.

The Catalog of FEMA Earthquake Resources, FEMA P-736A is available and 

contains publications pertaining to earthquakes. It is available online at 

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3538.
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

BUILDING SCIENCE PUBLICATIONS

Design and Construction Guidance Publications

FEMA P-259 – Engineering Principles and Practices for Retrofitting Flood-Prone 

Residential Structures (Third Edition, December 2011) : 4 8

The third edition of this document is intended to further aid homeowners in selecting and successfully executing a flood retrofit on their home. 

Engineering design and economic guidance on what constitutes feasible and cost-effective retrofitting measures for flood-prone residential 

and non-residential structures are presented. Elevation, relocation, dry 

floodproofing, wet floodproofing, and the use of levees and floodwalls 

to mitigate flood hazards are discussed. This edition was updated to be 

more user-friendly and concise, the overall length of the publication has 

been shortened. New and updated graphics, as well as newly updated design calculation examples and case studies, are presented. Equations, example calculations, and the guidance in the 

text have been updated to reflect the most current editions of building codes and standards. 

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1645

FEMA P-55 – Coastal Construction Manual: Principles and Practices of Planning, 

Siting, Designing, Constructing, and Maintaining Residential Buildings in 

Coastal Areas (Fourth Edition, August 2011) : 4 8

The 2011 Coastal Construction Manual, Fourth Edition, is a two-volume 

publication that provides a comprehensive approach to planning, siting, 

designing, constructing, and maintaining homes in the coastal environment. Volume I provides information about hazard identification, siting 

decisions, regulatory requirements, economic implications, and risk 

management. The primary audience for Volume I is design professionals, officials, and those involved in the decision-making process. 

Volume II contains in-depth descriptions of design, construction, and maintenance practices 

that, when followed, will increase the durability of residential buildings in the harsh coastal environment and reduce economic losses associated with coastal natural disasters. The primary 

audience for Volume II is the design professional who is familiar with building codes and standards and has a basic understanding of engineering principles.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1671

FEMA P-499 – Home Builder’s Guide to Coastal Construction Technical Fact 

Sheet Series (December 2010) : 4 8

This document contains a series of 37 fact sheets that provide technical guidance and recommendations concerning the construction of 

coastal residential buildings. The fact sheets present information aimed 

at improving the performance of buildings subject to flood and wind 

forces in coastal environments. The fact sheets make extensive use of 
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

photographs and drawings to illustrate National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) regulatory requirements, the proper siting of coastal buildings, and recommended design and construction 

practices for building components, including structural connections, the building envelope, 

utilities, and accessory structures. Many of the fact sheets also include lists of additional resources that provide more information about the topics discussed. Where appropriate, resources 

are accompanied by active web links. The fact sheets are divided into nine categories: General, 

Planning, Foundations, Load Paths, Wall Systems, Openings, Roofing, Attachments, and Repairs. A guide, including References and Resources, is also included.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2138

FEMA P-804 – Wind Retrofit Guide for Residential Buildings 

(December 2010) : 4 8

FEMA produced this document to provide guidance on how to improve 

the wind resistance of existing residential buildings in the hurricaneprone regions throughout the United States. Wind-related damages 

can be reduced or prevented by improving the performance of residential buildings in these areas. Retrofitting a home is most effective 

when building components are strengthened in groups, or packages, to achieve a more complete improvement to the performance of 

the building. This guide proposes three “Mitigation Packages” retrofits – Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Components of each mitigation package are 

presented in the guide. The improvements of each package build on the retrofits of the 

previous package to provide increasing levels of wind hazard resistance.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4569

FEMA P-798 – Natural Hazards and Sustainability for Residential Buildings

(September 2010) : 4 8

This document examines current green building rating systems in a 

broader context. It identifies green building practices – the tools of 

today’s green building rating systems – that are different from historical residential building practices and that, unless implemented with an 

understanding of their interactions with the rest of the structure, have 

the potential to compromise a building’s resistance to natural hazard 

events. This document also discusses how to retain or improve natural 

hazard resistance while incorporating these green building practices. 

While most common green building practices provide sustainability advantages with little or 

no effect on structural performance or durability, others require reevaluation of the building’s 

structural design or detailing to retain its integrity during natural hazard events. Often, only 

minimal design modifications are required to maintain natural hazard resistance.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4347
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

FEMA P-758 – Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Desk Reference

(May 2010) : 4 8

The Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage (SI/SD) Desk Reference is designed as a comprehensive resource for local officials who 

are responsible for the administration of local codes and ordinances, 

including the SI/SD requirements. It also is intended for state officials 

who provide technical assistance to communities on the NFIP. Incorporating diagrams, decision charts, illustrations, and examples, the SI/SD 

Desk Reference is designed to clearly communicate responsibilities and 

strategies for administering this important NFIP requirement.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4160

FEMA B-797 – Hazard Mitigation Field Book: Roadways (May 2010) : 4 

This document helps local government entities choose the best hazard 

mitigation solution(s) given their operational constraints and design 

considerations. By offering the user a quick selection tool, based on 

broad characteristics, the field book reduces a wide array of technical 

solutions to a few practical options. Although there are many causes of 

damage to roadways, this field book focuses primarily on flood-related 

causes of damage.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4271

FEMA P-550 – Recommended Residential Construction in Coastal Areas: 

Building on Strong and Safe Foundations (Second Edition, December 2009) 

: 4 8

Every storm has shown that, while good design and construction cannot completely eliminate risk, they can significantly reduce the risk to 

life and damage to property. This design manual provides recommended designs and guidance for rebuilding homes destroyed by hurricanes 

in coastal areas. The manual also provides guidance in designing and 

building less vulnerable new homes that reduce the risk to life and property. Construction plans and specifications in AutoCad format are also 

available.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1853

FEMA P-312 – Homeowner’s Guide to Retrofitting: Six Ways to Protect Your 

Home From Flooding (Second Edition – December 2009) : 4 8

This handbook is intended for non-technical readers who are interested in additional information on flood protection methods. Illustrated 

discussions of house elevation, wet and dry floodproofing, relocation, 

levees and floodwalls, and demolition are supplemented with cost estimates, checklists, and decision-making worksheets.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1420
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

FEMA P-85 – Protecting Manufactured Homes from Floods and Other Hazards 

(Second Edition, November 2009) : 4 8

This publication was designed to provide guidance for prospective 

homeowners, contractors, and local officials for the installation of 

manufactured homes in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs). Manufactured homes have unique challenges related to water intrusion into 

the structure. This publication addresses recommendations for foundation construction for this popular style of home. 

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1577

FEMA P-431 – Tornado Protection: Selecting Refuge Areas in 

Buildings (Second Edition, October 2009 ) : 4

This booklet presents information (e.g., tornado profiles, effects 

of high winds, case studies, selection procedures, etc.) that will 

aid qualified architects and engineers in the identification of the 

best available refuge areas in existing buildings. 

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?&id=1563 

FEMA 388-CD – Safe Room Resources CD (March 2009) 8

This CD contains displays, posters, handouts, multimedia, and other 

resources that provide information about mitigating for tornadoes or other high-wind events and the importance of safe rooms 

in saving lives during such events. Also included are: safe room 

display panels that contain artwork for reproducing the exhibit 

panels used in the National Emergency Training Center Safe Room 

Exhibit, maps on tornado activity in the U.S., posters, FEMA's 

Taking Shelter From the Storm brochure, various handouts, and a safe room 

PowerPoint presentation.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1801 

FEMA P-762 – Local Officials Guide for Coastal Construction (February 2009) 

: 4 8

This guide was developed to assist building officials in understanding 

the connection between National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) 

guidelines and applicable building codes and standards. It also explores 

evidence collected following recent storm events and recommends "best 

practices" where appropriate. The focus of this guide is on residential 

buildings, including detached single-family structures (three or fewer 

stories).

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3647
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

FEMA P-754 – Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Handbook for Public Facilities 

(October 2008) :

This Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Handbook for Public Facilities (Handbook) 

is intended to assist facility owners affected by wildfire disasters by suggesting 

mitigation measures that can be taken to reduce the vulnerability of damaged 

facilities to future wildfire incidents.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3723

FEMA P-737 – Home Builder's Guide to Construction in Wildfire Zones 

Technical Fact Sheet Series (September 2008) : 4 8

The purpose of this series of 17 Technical Fact Sheets is to provide information about wildfire behavior and recommendations for building 

design and construction methods in the wildland/urban interface. Implementation of the recommended design and construction methods 

can greatly increase the chances of a building’s survival in a wildfire. In 

addition to the recommendations for building design and construction 

methods, other fact sheet subject areas include selecting the construction site; defensible space; roofs; eaves, overhangs, and soffits; exterior 

walls; vents; gutters and downspouts; windows and skylights; exterior doors; foundations; decks 

and other attached structures; landscape fences and walls; fire sprinklers; utilities and exterior 

equipment; and community infrastructure.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3646

FEMA 320 – Taking Shelter From The Storm: Building a Safe Room For Your 

Home or Small Business (Third Edition, August 2008) : 4 8

This document helps home and business owners decide how best to 

protect their families and employees from tornadoes and hurricanes. 

Designs for in-home, free-standing, and underground safe rooms to protect families and employees from the forces of wind and flying debris are 

provided. Construction plans and specifications in AutoCad format are 

also provided.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1536 

FEMA 361 – Design and Construction Guidance for Community Safe Rooms

(Second Edition, August 2008) : 4 8

This document presents important information about the design and 

construction of community safe rooms that will provide protection during tornado and hurricane events.

Community safe rooms are designed and constructed to protect a large 

number of people from a natural hazard event. The number of persons 

taking refuge in the safe rooms will typically be more than 12 and could 

be up to several hundred or more.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1657 
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

FEMA 347 – Above the Flood: Elevating Your Floodprone House (May 2000) 

: 4 8

This publication shows how floodprone houses in south Florida were 

elevated above the 100-year flood level following Hurricane Andrew and 

also presents alternative elevation techniques.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1424

FEMA 348 – Protecting Building Utilities From Flood Damage: Principles and 

Practices for the Design and Construction of Flood Resistant Building Utility 

Systems (November 1999) : 4

The overall objective of this document is to assist in the construction of buildings with building utility systems that are designed and 

built so that the buildings can be re-occupied and fully operational 

as soon as electricity, sewer, and water are restored to the neighborhood.

The intended users of this manual are developers, architects, engineers, builders, code officials, and homeowners who are involved in 

designing and constructing building utility systems for residential and non-residential structures. This manual discusses flood protective design and construction of utility systems for new 

buildings and modifications to utility systems in existing buildings

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1750

CodeMaster for Flood Resistant Design (2011)

In cooperation with the International Code Council and S.K. Ghosh 

Associates, FEMA’s Risk Reduction Division, Building Science Branch, 

has produced an 8-page laminated guide to flood-resistant design. The 

CodeMaster provides designers with an easy-to-use desk reference that 

identifies the flood provisions in the 2009 and 2012 International Building Code® (IBC®) and International Residential Code® (IRC®), as well as 

the flood requirements of American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) 

standards 7-05, 7-10, and 24-05. The CodeMaster is a unique and useful 

tool for designers to make sure that they incorporate the flood-resistant provisions of these codes and standards. The 8-page guide provides 

sections on preliminary considerations and design process, key flood 

terminology, a 12-step process to incorporate flood resistance in the design of a building, an 

example showing the 12-step process being executed, and information on additional FEMA 

mitigation resources related to flood-resistant design. The document also uses illustrations to 

ensure a clear understanding for users in the professional community. 

http://www.iccsafe.org/Store/Pages/Product.aspx?id=9626S12
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

Reducing Flood Losses Through the International Code Series 

(Third Edition, December 2008) : 4

The third edition of this guide is intended to help community officials 

decide how to integrate the 2006 edition (and 2007 Supplement) of the 

International Codes (I-Codes) into their current floodplain development 

and regulatory processes in order to meet the requirements to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Careful attention 

is required to ensure that all requirements of the NFIP are addressed by 

communities through both building codes and other ordinances or regulations. Adoption of one or more of the I-Codes, by themselves, does not 

necessarily meet those requirements. This guide is not intended as an endorsement of any specific approach for achieving effective management of flood hazards, nor does it explain the NFIP 

requirements and how to administer them. This publication is available in hard copy for a modest fee (http://www.iccsafe.org).

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2094

Hurricane Mitigation: A Handbook for Public Facilities (May 2005) : 

This handbook is intended to aid local jurisdictions in identifying a variety of 

feasible mitigation measures that can be implemented during the rebuilding 

process. It focuses on projects commonly eligible for hazard mitigation funding under the Public Assistance (PA) Program.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3722

Flood Hazard Mitigation Handbook for Public Facilities (June 2001) : 

This handbook is intended to aid local jurisdictions in identifying a variety of feasible mitigation 

ideas that can be implemented during the rebuilding process. It focuses on projects commonly 

eligible for hazard mitigation funding under the Public Assistance (PA) Program.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3724

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2012 International Code Series (January 2012) : 

This document is a compilation of flood resistant provisions, prepared by FEMA, of the 2012 

International Code Series (IBC, IRC, IEBC IMC, IPC, IFGC, IPSDC, IFC). Also included, as 

a separate document, is a summary of changes from the 2009 IBC. The 2012 edition of the 

I-Codes contains provisions that are consistent with the minimum flood-resistant design and 

construction requirements of the NFIP for buildings and structures.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4990

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2009 International Code Series (January 2011) : 

This document is a compilation of flood resistant provisions, prepared by FEMA, of the 2009 

International Code Series (IBC, IRC, IEBC IMC, IPC, IFGC, IPSDC, IFC). Also included, as 

a separate document, is a summary of changes from the 2006 IBC. The 2009 edition of the 
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

I-Codes contains provisions that are consistent with the minimum flood-resistant design and 

construction requirements of the NFIP for buildings and structures.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4574

Provisions of the 2009 I-Codes and ASCE 24 Compared to the NFIP (January 2011) : 

This table is a comparison of the provisions of the 2009 I-Codes/ASCE 24-05 and the National 

Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) requirements.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4575

Highlights of ASCE 24-05 Flood Resistant Design and Construction (December 2010) : 

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) 24-05 is a referenced standard in the International Building Code® and the International Residential Code®. Any building or structure 

that falls within the scope of the IBC that is proposed in a flood hazard area is to be designed 

in accordance with ASCE 24-05. The IRC requires that dwellings in floodways be designed in 

accordance with ASCE 24-05, and the 2009 edition of the International Residential Code (IRC) 

includes an alternative that allows communities to require homes in V Zones to be designed in 

accordance with ASCE 24-05. Highlights of ASCE 24-05 that complement the NFIP minimum 

requirements include: Building Performance; Flood-Damage Resistant Materials; Utilities and 

Service Equipment; and Siting Considerations.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3515

I-Codes Sample Checklists for Flood Hazards : 

This document contains a Plan Review Checklist for Flood Hazard Area Application Review 

and an Inspection Checklist for Flood Hazard Area Inspections in both A Zones and V Zones. 

The checklists are from Reducing Flood Losses Through the International Code Series (3rd 

Edition) which can be ordered from the International Code Council, Inc. (www.iccsafe.org) or 

downloaded from the FEMA Library.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4576

Mitigation Assessment Team Reports

In response to disasters, FEMA assembles a team of national experts from the design and construction industry, as well as from FEMA Headquarters and Regional Offices. This group is 

known as a Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT; formerly known as a Building Performance 

Assessment Team [BPAT]) and comprises structural, wind, and civil engineers; architects; coastal scientists; building code experts; and flood preservation specialists, as well as representatives 

from other government agencies, laboratories, associations, and universities. The MAT evaluates and assesses damage from hurricanes and other natural disasters, and provides observations, 

conclusions, and recommendations on the performance of buildings and other structures 

impacted by wind and flood forces. The conclusions and recommendations of the MAT reports 

provide decision-makers with information and technical guidance that can be used to reduce 

future damage from natural disasters. 

A compilation CD with all the MAT reports will be available in 2012.
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

HURRICANES

FEMA P-757 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – Hurricane Ike in Texas and Louisiana: Building 

Performance Observations, Recommendations, and Technical Guidance (April 2009) : 4 8

Hurricane Ike was the ninth named storm during the 2008 hurricane 

season and the seventh of the season’s storms to hit the U.S. mainland. 

Hurricane Ike is likely to be one of the costliest and most destructive 

hurricanes in U.S. history; the total damage was estimated to be $21.3 

billion dollars, making it the fourth costliest hurricane in history behind Hurricanes Katrina (2005), Andrew (1992), and Wilma (2005). The 

Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) report focuses on damages to critical 

facilities and residential construction for both flood and wind. A special 

section focuses on damages to high-rise buildings in downtown Houston. 

Recommendations focus on actions that should be taken as part of the 

rebuilding efforts in Texas and Louisiana.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3577

Hurricane Ike (2008) Recovery Advisories :

The Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) report for Hurricane Ike (FEMA P-737) contains 

eight hurricane recovery advisories on attachment of brick veneer in high-wind regions; design 

and construction in Coastal A Zones; designing for flood levels above the BFE; enclosures and 

breakaway walls; erosion, scour, and foundation design; metal roof systems in high-wind regions; 

minimizing water intrusion through roof vents in high-wind regions; and siding installation in 

high-wind regions.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3539

FEMA 549 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – Hurricane Katrina in the 

Gulf Coast: Building Performance Observations, Recommendations, and 

Technical Guidance (July 2006) : 4 8

Hurricane Katrina was one of the strongest and most destructive storms 

to hit the Gulf Coast of the United States in the last 100 years. Katrina 

significantly exceeded the base flood elevations (BFEs) by as much as 15 

feet along parts of the Louisiana and Mississippi coasts. Flooding extended well beyond the inland flood limits of the Special Flood Hazard Area 

(SHFA), and the highest storm surge in U.S. history was recorded along 

the Mississippi coast. The American Red Cross estimated that Katrina 

destroyed over 300,000 single-family homes in Louisiana and Mississippi.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1857

FEMA 548 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – Summary Report on 

Building Performance: Hurricane Katrina 2005 (April 2006) : 4 

This is an 80-page summary of the almost 700-page FEMA 549 MAT 

report.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1455
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

Hurricane Katrina (2005) Recovery Advisories :

The Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) report for Hurricane Katrina (FEMA 549) contains eight hurricane recovery advisories on reconstruction guidance using Hurricane 

Katrina surge inundation and Advisory BFEs; initial restoration for flooded buildings; design and construction in Coastal A Zones; the ABCs of returning to flooded buildings; 

attachment of brick veneer in high-wind regions; attachment of rooftop equipment in 

high-wind regions; rooftop attachment of lightning protection systems in high-wind regions; 

and designing for flood levels above the BFE.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2633

FEMA 489 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – Hurricane Ivan in Alabama 

and Florida: Observations, Recommendations, and Technical Guidance

(August 2005) : 4 8

Hurricane Ivan approximated a design flood event on the barrier islands and exceeded design flood conditions in sound and 

back bay areas. This provided a good opportunity to assess the adequacy of National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) floodplain 

management requirements as well as current construction 

practices in resisting storm surge and wave damage. FEMA was particularly 

interested in evaluating damages to buildings in Coastal A zones where 

V-zone construction methods are not required.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1569

FEMA 488 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – Hurricane Charley in 

Florida: Observations, Recommendations, and Technical Guidance (April 2005) 

: 4 8

Hurricane Charley was the strongest hurricane to hit Florida since Hurricane Andrew. The storm made an unexpected eastward turn prior to 

landfall and the storm surge was not as high as originally predicted by the 

National Hurricane Center. Charley did not cause extensive flood damage to the built environment and the MAT’s investigations revealed that 

the storm was a design-level wind event. For these reasons, the report primarily addresses the effects of high winds and the means to help mitigate 

them. 

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1444

Hurricane Charley (2004) Recovery Advisories :

The Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) report for Hurricane Charley (FEMA 488) contains 

three hurricane recovery advisories on roof underlayment for asphalt shingle roofs; asphalt 

shingle roofing for high-wind regions; and tile roofing for hurricane-prone areas.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2632
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

FEMA 490 – Summary Report on Building Performance 2004 Hurricane 

Season (March 2005) : 4 

This is a 68-page summary of the observation, conclusions, and recommendations from FEMA 488 and FEMA 489.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1445

FEMA 338 – Building Performance Assessment Team Report – Hurricane 

Georges in the Gulf Coast: Building Performance Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance (March 1999) : 4

Hurricane Georges made landfall in the Ocean Springs/Biloxi, 

Mississippi area. Over the next 30 hours, the storm moved slowly 

north and east, causing heavy damage along the Gulf Coast in Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi. Storm surges over the area ranged 

from more than 5 feet in Pensacola, Florida, to 9 feet in Pascagoula, 

Mississippi. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the 

Town of Munson, Florida, in Santa Rosa County, received the highest 

recorded level of rainfall with more than 38 inches.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1537

FEMA 339 – Building Performance Assessment Team Report – 

Hurricane Georges in Puerto Rico: Building Performance Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance (March 1999) : 4

This report presents observations on the success and failure of buildings in Puerto Rico in withstanding the wind and flood forces generated 

by Hurricane Georges. Several examples of successful mitigation 

implementation were noted, but a significant amount of damage was 

incurred due to lack of compliance with and enforcement of existing 

building codes.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1422

FEMA 290 – Building Performance Assessment Team Report – Hurricane 

Fran in North Carolina: Building Performance Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance (March 1997) :

Hurricane Fran made landfall near Cape Fear, North Carolina. Coastal areas experienced significant erosion and scour. Erosion caused by 

Hurricane Fran was exacerbated by the previous dune erosion caused 

by Hurricane Bertha, which made landfall in the same area only 2 

months earlier. The erosion and scour added to the average erosion 

rate of 1 to 2 feet a year and left many oceanfront homes unable to 

withstand the loads experienced. The loss of supporting sand left 

many short pilings either completely exposed or embedded less than 

2 feet.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2770
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

FEMA 281 – Building Performance Assessment Team Report – Hurricane Opal 

in Florida (August 1996) :

Hurricane Opal was classified as a Category 3 storm on the Saffir-Simpson scale. Fifteen counties in the Florida Panhandle were declared 

Federal disaster areas. Most of the structural damage associated 

with the storm was to slab foundations; pile, post, column, and pier 

foundations; and framing systems. The damage was caused by coastal flood forces – storm surge, wind-generated waves, storm-induced 

erosion, and floodborne debris.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2769 

FIA 23 – Building Performance Assessment Report – Hurricane Iniki in 

Hawaii: Observations, Recommendations, and Technical Guidance 

(March 1993) : 

Hurricane Iniki was the strongest and most destructive hurricane to 

strike the Hawaiian Islands in recent memory. The team investigated 

primary structural systems (i.e., systems in a building that resist lateral and vertical forces), and the effects of windborne and waterborne 

debris and the quality of construction and materials. The performance 

of exterior architectural systems (such as roofing, windows, and doors) 

was analyzed.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2767 

FIA 22 – Building Performance Assessment Report – Hurricane Andrew in 

Florida: Observations, Recommendations, and Technical Guidance 

(February 1993) : 

The team’s investigation was similar to that conducted for Hurricane Iniki (i.e., the performance of primary structural systems 

and exterior architectural systems) and also included the effects of 

debris and the quality of construction workmanship. The loss of roof 

material and roof sheathing and the failure of windows and doors exposed interiors of buildings to further damage from wind and rain, 

resulting in significant damage to building interiors and contents that 

rendered many buildings uninhabitable.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2765
14 : AVAILABLE ONLINE 4 AVAILABLE IN PRINT 8 AVAILABLE ON CD 

Contents Table 1 – Publications

TORNADOES

FEMA P-908 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – April and May 2011 

Tornadoes in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Missouri

In May and June 2011, Mitigation Assessment Teams (MATs) were deployed to Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, and Tennessee, and Missouri, 

respectively, to assess the damage caused by outbreaks of tornadoes 

in those states. This report presents the MATs observations, conclusions, and recommendations in response to those field investigations. 

The mission of the MATs was to assess the performance of structures 

affected by the tornadoes, investigate safe room and shelter performance in the affected areas, and describe the lessons learned to help 

future efforts to more successfully mitigate tornado events. The objective of the report is to provide information to communities, businesses, and individuals so that 

they can rebuild safer, more robust structures and minimize loss of life, injuries, and property 

damage in future tornadoes and high-wind events. The MAT report will present the observations, conclusions, and recommendations for residential structures, as well as commercial and 

other non-residential and critical facilities (e.g., schools, hospitals and health care facilities, first 

responder facilities, and emergency operations centers and emergency management agencies). 

This publication will be available in 2012.

FEMA 342 – Building Performance Assessment Team Report – Midwest 

Tornadoes of May 3, 1999: Observations, Recommendations, and Technical 

Guidance (October 1999) : 4

On the evening of May 3, 1999, tornadoes tore through parts of Oklahoma and Kansas, in areas that are considered part of “Tornado Alley,” 

leveling entire neighborhoods and killing 49 people. The storms that 

spawned the tornadoes moved slowly, contributing to the development and redevelopment of individual tornadoes over an extended 

period of time. The report presents observations, conclusions, and 

recommendations intended to help communities, businesses, and 

individuals reduce future injuries and the loss of life and property resulting from tornadoes and other high-wind events.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1423

2011 Tornadoes in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Missouri Recovery Advisories :

These eight recovery advisories present guidance on tornado risks and hazards in the Southeastern United States; selecting design criteria for safe rooms; residential sheltering (in-residence 

and stand-alone safe rooms); safe rooms and refuge areas in a home; recommendations for 

owners of critical facilities located in tornado-prone regions; recommendations for architects 

and engineers for critical facilities located in tornado-prone regions; rebuilding and repairing 

a home after a tornado; and reconstructing non-residential buildings after a tornado.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4723
: AVAILABLE ONLINE 4 AVAILABLE IN PRINT 8 AVAILABLE ON CD 15

Contents Table 1 – Publications

2007 Tornadoes in Kansas Recovery Advisories :

These three recovery advisories present guidance on tornado risks and hazards in the Midwest 

United States; selecting design criteria for storm shelters; and residential sheltering (in-residence and stand-alone shelters).

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2972

2007 Tornadoes in Florida Recovery Advisories :

These five recovery advisories present guidance on tornado risks and hazards in the Southeastern United States; selecting design criteria for storm shelters; residential sheltering (in-residence 

and stand-alone shelters); understanding and improving performance of older manufactured 

homes during high-wind events; and understanding and improving performance of new manufactured homes during high-wind events.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2631

FLOODS

FEMA P-765 – Mitigation Assessment Team Report – Midwest Floods of 

2008 in Iowa and Wisconsin: Building Performance Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance (October 2009) : 4 8

In August and September 2008, the Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) 

deployed to the States of Iowa and Wisconsin to assess damage caused 

by riverine flooding from the 2008 Midwest floods. This report presents 

the MAT’s observations on the success and failure of buildings impacted by these floods. Several examples of mitigation success stories were 

noted, as well lessons learned and recommendations resulting from 

field investigations. The report includes recovery advisories related to 

supporting homeowners making fundamental decisions relative to rebuilding as well as offering proactive methods to support the continuity 

of operations for critical facilities.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3851

2008 Midwest Floods Recovery Advisories :

The Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) report for the Midwest Floods in Iowa and Wisconsin 

(FEMA P-765) contains two flood recovery advisories on considerations for rebuilding a flooddamaged house and design considerations for improving critical facility functionality during 

flood events.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3824
16 : AVAILABLE ONLINE 4 AVAILABLE IN PRINT 8 AVAILABLE ON CD 

Contents Table 1 – Publications

MAN-MADE HAZARDS 

FEMA 403 – World Trade Center Building Performance Study: Data 

Collection, Preliminary Observations, and Recommendations 

(September 2002) : 4 8

This report presents observations, findings, and recommendations regarding the performance of buildings affected by the September 11 

attacks on the WTC towers in New York City. The report also describes 

the structural and fire protection features of the affected buildings and 

their performance in response to the terrorist attacks.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1728

FEMA 277 – The Oklahoma City Bombing: Improving Building Performance 

Through Multi-Hazard Mitigation (August 1996) : 4 

The purposes of the Mitigation Assessment Team investigation were to 

review damage caused by the blast, determine the failure mechanism 

for the building, and review engineering strategies for reducing such 

damage to new and existing buildings in the future. Specifically, mechanisms for multi-hazard mitigation, including mitigation of wind and 

earthquakes effects, were considered.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1530 

Risk Management Series

The Risk Management Series (RMS) is directed at providing design guidance for mitigating 

multihazard events. The objective of the series is to reduce physical damage to structural and 

nonstructural components of buildings and related infrastructure, and to reduce resultant casualties during natural and manmade disasters. 

The RMS is intended to minimize conflicts that may arise from a multihazard design approach. 

A multihazard approach requires a complex series of tradeoffs. Security concerns need to be 

balanced with requirements in terms of earthquakes, floods, high-speed winds, accessibility, 

fire protection, and aesthetics, among others. Designing to mitigate natural hazards should 

avoid considering manmade hazards as an afterthought, but rather as a critical concern to be 

studied early during the project cycle. Natural hazards are the largest single contributor to 

catastrophic or repetitive damage to communities nationwide. Manmade hazards can be categorized as rare events with a potential high impact and very difficult to predict.

For additional RMS publications visit http://www.fema.gov/plan/prevent/rms.
: AVAILABLE ONLINE 4 AVAILABLE IN PRINT 8 AVAILABLE ON CD 17

Contents Table 1 – Publications

FEMA P-424 – Design Guide for School Safety in Earthquakes, Floods, and 

High Winds (December 2010) : 4 

This manual is the updated version of the original FEMA 424 published 

in January 2004. It is intended to provide guidance for the protection 

of school buildings from natural disasters. This volume concentrates on 

grade schools, K-12. FEMA P-424 covers earthquakes, floods, and high 

winds. Its intended audience is design professionals and school officials 

involved in the technical and financial decisions of school construction, 

repair, and renovations. 

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1986

FEMA 577 – Design Guide for Improving Hospital Safety in Earthquakes, Floods, 

and High Winds (June 2007) : 4 

This publication provides design information for the construction of 

new hospitals and rehabilitation of existing ones with the purpose of 

improving their performance during the immediate aftermath of 

various hazard events. This manual is concerned with factors such as 

performance-based design and conttinuiy of operations for this type of 

building. It provides a multihazard approach highlighting conflicts and 

benefits to consider when designing.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2739

FEMA 543 – Design Guide for Improving Critical Facility Safety from Flooding and 

High Winds (January 2007) : 4 

This manual concentrates on critical facilities (hospitals, schools, fire and 

police stations, and emergency operations centers). It is based on the 

behavior of critical facilities during Hurricane Katrina and makes recommendations on the performance of these types of buildings. It includes 

extensive information on the impact of storm surges to the Gulf area.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2441

Technical Bulletins

TB-0 – Technical Bulletin 0 – User's Guide to Technical Bulletins (March 2009) 

: 4 

This Technical Bulletin provides a list of available technical bulletins, a 

key word/subject reference index for all of the bulletins, and information about how to obtain copies of the bulletins.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1484
18 : AVAILABLE ONLINE 4 AVAILABLE IN PRINT 8 AVAILABLE ON CD 

Contents Table 1 – Publications

TB-1 – Technical Bulletin 1 – Openings in Foundation Walls of Enclosures 

(August 2008) : 4 

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations concerning the requirements for openings in foundation walls for buildings 

with enclosures below the base flood elevation (BFE) and located in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) shown on Flood Insurance Rate Maps 

(FIRMs) as Zones A, AE, A1-A30, AR, AO, and AH.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1579

TB-2 – Technical Bulletin 2 – Flood Damage-Resistant Materials Requirements

(August 2008) : 4 

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations 

concerning the required use of flood damage-resistant construction materials for building components located below the BFE in Special Flood 

Hazard Areas (SFHAs) in both A and V zones.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1580

FIA-TB-3 – Non-Residential Floodproofing – Requirements and 

Certification (April 1993) : 4 

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations 

concerning watertight construction and the required certification for 

floodproofed non-residential buildings in Zones A, AE, A1-A30, AR, AO, 

and AH whose lowest floors are below the BFE.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1716

TB-4 – Technical Bulletin 4 – Elevator Installation (November 2010) : 4 

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations concerning the installation of elevators below the BFE in Special Flood 

Hazard Areas (both A and V zones).

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1717

TB-5 – Technical Bulletin 5 – Free-of-Obstruction Requirements

(August 2008) : 4 

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations 

concerning obstructions to floodwaters below elevated buildings and 

on building sites in Coastal High Hazard Areas (Zones V, VE, and 

V1-V30).

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1718
: AVAILABLE ONLINE 4 AVAILABLE IN PRINT 8 AVAILABLE ON CD 19

Contents Table 1 – Publications

FIA-TB-6 – Below-Grade Parking Requirements (April 1993) : 4 

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations concerning the design of below-grade parking garages beneath buildings located in Zones A, AE, A1-A30, AR, AO, and AH.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1719

FIA-TB-7 – Wet Floodproofing Requirements (December 1993) : 4 

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the NFIP regulations concerning wet floodproofing of certain types of structures located in Zones A, AE, A1-A30, AR, AO, and AH.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1720

FIA-TB-8 – Corrosion Protection for Metal Connectors in Coastal Areas (August 1996) : 4 

This Technical Bulletin provides guidance on the need for, selection of, and use of corrosionresistant metal connectors for the construction of buildings in coastal areas.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1721

TB-9 – Technical Bulletin 9 – Design and Construction Guidance for Breakaway 

Walls (August 2008) : 4 

This Technical Bulletin provides prescriptive criteria for the design 

and construction of wood-frame and masonry breakaway walls beneath 

elevated buildings in Coastal High Hazard Areas compliant with NFIP 

regulatory requirements.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1722

FIA-TB-10 – Ensuring That Structures Built on Fill In or Near Special Flood Hazard Areas Are Reasonably 

Safe From Flooding (May 2001) : 4 

This Technical Bulletin discusses building techniques, including the use of fill, that can be used 

to ensure structures are reasonably safe from flooding.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1723

FIA-TB-11 – Technical Bulletin 11 – Crawlspace Construction for Buildings Located in Special Flood 

Hazard Areas (November 2001) : 4 

This Technical Bulletin provides interim guidance on minimum NFIP requirements as well as 

best practices for crawlspace construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1724
20 : AVAILABLE ONLINE 4 AVAILABLE IN PRINT 8 AVAILABLE ON CD 

Contents Table 1 – Publications

Tools

FEMA P-784 CD – The FEMA Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) 

(Version 1.1, September 2011; Version 2.0, Spring/Summer 2012) : 8

The FEMA P-784 CD includes the Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) 

software, the SDE User’s Manual and Workbook, the video titled SDE and 

Your Community, and the Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage 

Desk Reference (FEMA P-758). The SDE was developed to assist State and 

local officials in estimating building value and costs to repair for residential and non-residential buildings. The SDE software is based on the 

concept of using damage estimates for individual building elements to 

determine whether the structure as a whole is substantially damaged. The SDE software and 

User's Manual and Workbook are provided here for online access. Version 2.0 will be available in 

spring/summer 2012.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4166

FEMA 497 – National Flood Mitigation Data Collection Tool and RLP Viewer (April 2011) : 

The National Flood Mitigation Data Collection Tool (abbreviated as NFMDCT and referred to as 

the National Tool or NT) was developed for nationwide use to gather information about floodprone structures in order to determine potentially appropriate long-term mitigation measures. 

The ultimate goal of the NT is to provide a standardized, systematic approach to collecting and 

interpreting property data and mitigation project development.

While the focus of the NT is on data collection for repetitive loss (RL) properties, it can be used 

to gather information related to flood risk, building construction, and building value for any 

structure. The NT is designed to encourage a comprehensive sweep for information pertinent 

to each structure. Data fields within the NT require information from a variety of sources, including NFIP policy information; community building, tax, and historical flood records; and 

field reconnaissance. Having detailed data helps create a clearer picture of the property and its 

flooding issues, which is important in determining the most appropriate and cost-effective mitigation method. However, the NT can also be used for more cursory or limited data collection 

efforts as appropriate.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3413

FEMA 497 – Repetitive Loss Property (RLP) Viewer 2.0 (April 2011) : 

The Repetitive Loss Property (RLP) Viewer 2.0 is a standalone application 

capable of connecting to any standard NT database in Access format 

(.MDB) that uses GIS to display point features representing flood-prone 

properties. The NT User's Guide provides assistance in using both tools. 

The National Flood Mitigation Data Collection Tool, FEMA 497 , was developed for nationwide use to gather information about flood-prone 

structures in order to evaluate appropriate long-term mitigation measures. 

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1447
: AVAILABLE ONLINE 4 AVAILABLE IN PRINT 8 AVAILABLE ON CD 21

Contents Table 1 – Publications

Brochures

FEMA L-780 – Building Science for Disaster-Resistant Communities: Wind Hazard 

Publications (November 2011) :

This brochure provides readers with a quick summary of publications that will 

help them prepare for and mitigate against wind hazards. It describes how severe wind storms often directly damage roofs, windows, and exterior finishes. 

The impact that wind has on the envelope of a building can also impact the superstructure of the building, and breaches in a building envelope frequently 

contribute to additional damages. Debris such as signs, roofing material, and 

other small items can also become flying missiles during wind events, which can 

pose a danger to a home or the safety of its occupants.

Proper design and construction provides resilient buildings that resist damages 

from hurricane-force winds and other high-wind events.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4579

FEMA L-781 – Building Science for Disaster-Resistant Communities: Hurricane 

Hazard Publications (November 2011) : 

This brochure provides readers with a quick summary of publications that will 

help them prepare for and mitigate against hurricane wind hazards. During a 

hurricane, homes, businesses, public buildings, and infrastructure may be damaged or destroyed by many different storm hazards. Debris can break windows 

and doors, allowing high winds and rain inside the home. In extreme storms 

(such as Hurricanes Hugo, Andrew, and Katrina), the force of the wind alone 

can cause tremendous devastation, as trees and power lines topple and weak 

elements of homes and buildings fail. Roads and bridges can be washed away and 

homes saturated by flooding.

Hurricanes pose a particular hazard to buildings, and proper design and construction are 

essential to help buildings withstand the impact of these storms.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4578

FEMA L-782 – Building Science for Disaster-Resistant Communities: Flood Hazard 

Publications (November 2011) : 

This brochure provides readers with a quick summary of publications that will 

help them prepare for and mitigate against flood hazards. 

Buildings located in flood hazard areas are at risk from forces generated by floodwaters. These forces can include hydrostatic forces from slow moving floodwaters, 

hydrodynamic forces from waves and quickly moving water, as well as scour 

around building elements, erosion, and flood-borne debris.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4580

Hurricane Ike in Texas and 

Louisiana: Mitigation Assessment 

Team Report, Building Performance

Observations, Recommendations, 

and Technical Guidance (FEMA 

P-757, April 2009) E, C, H,   

In response to Hurricane Ike, FEMA

deployed a Mitigation Assessment

Team (MAT) to evaluate and assess damage from the 

hurricane and provide observations, conclusions, and 

recommendations on the performance of buildings and 

MAT included FEMA Headquarters and Regional Office

engineers, representatives from other Federal agencies and academia, and experts from the design and 

construction industry. The conclusions and recommendations of this report are intended to provide decisionmakers with information and technical guidance that 

can be used to reduce future hurricane damage.

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3577

Design Guide for Improving Critical

Facility Safety from Flooding and 

High Winds (FEMA 543, January

2007) E, C, CO,   

This manual concentrates on critiand police stations, and emergency 

operation centers). It is based on the

behavior of critical facilities during Hurricane Katrina 

(2005) and makes recommendations on the performance of these types of buildings.

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2441

Building Science for 

Disaster-Resistant 

Comunities: 

Hurricane Hazard

Publications

FEMA L-781 / November 2011

Hurricane Ike Recovery Advisories 

(2008) E, C, CO,  

These eight Recovery Advisories are 

part of the Mitigation Assessment

Team (MAT) report for Hurricane Ike 

(2008) in Texas and Louisiana.

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3539

Recommended Residential 

Construction for Coastal Areas:

Building on Strong and Safe 

Foundations (FEMA P-550, Second 

Edition, November 2009)

E, C, H,   

Every storm has shown that while

good design and construction cannot

the risk to life and damage to property. This design

manual provides recommended designs and guidance 

for rebuilding homes destroyed by hurricanes in the Gulf 

Coast. The manual also provides guidance in designing

and building less vulnerable new homes to reduce the 

risk to life and property.

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1853

Coastal Construction Manual: 

Principles and Practices of 

Planning, Siting, Designing, 

Constructing, and Maintaining

Buildings in Coastal Areas 

(FEMA P-55, Fourth Edition, 

August 2011) E, C, CO,  

To provide mitigation guidance to

local officials and professionals in building design and

construction, FEMA prepared the third edition of the 

Coastal Construction Manual. The manual provides a 

comprehensive approach to sensible development in

coastal areas based on guidance from over 200 experts 

in building science, coastal hazard mitigation, and building codes and regulatory requirements.

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1671

To download publications, please visit the FEMA 

Library at: http://www.fema.gov/library.

To order publications please call 1-800-480-2520 or fax 

1-240-699-0525 (Monday − Friday, 8:00 a.m. − 5:00

p.m., EST) or email your request to FEMA-PublicationsWarehouse@dhs.gov. Please provide the title, publication number, and quantity, along with your name, 

address, zipcode, and daytime telephone number.

L-781 / 09345-3

Protect Your Property from High

Winds (April 2011)

E, C, CO, 

protecting your property from high 

winds can involve a variety of actions, 

from inspecting and maintaining your 

building to installing protective devices. Most of these actions, especially those that affect 

the exterior shell of your building, should be carried out 

licensed to work in your state, county, or city.

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3263

Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf Coast: 

Mitigation Assessment Team Report, 

Building Performance Observations,

Recommendations, and Technical 

Guidance (FEMA 549, July 2006)

E, C, H,   

In response to Hurricane Katrina, 

FEMA deployed a Mitigation Assessment Team (MAT) to evaluate and assess damage from 

the hurricane and provide observations, conclusions, and 

recommendations on the performance of buildings and 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1857

Design and Construction Guidance

for Community Safe Rooms (FEMA 

361 – Second Edition, August 2008)

E, C, CO, H,   

This document presents important 

information about the design and 

construction of community safe

rooms that will provide protection during tornado and 

hurricane events. Community safe rooms are designed and constructed to protect a large number of 

people from a natural hazard event. The number of 

persons taking refuge in the safe room will typically

be more than 12 and could be up to several hundred 

or more. This latest edition meets and exceeds the 

design criteria set for in the ICC-500, Standard for the 

Design and Construction of Storm Shelters.

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1657

Home Builder’s Guide to Coastal 

Construction: Technical Fact Sheet 

Series (FEMA P-499, December 

2010) E, C, CO, H,   

FEMA produced this series of 37 fact 

sheets to provide technical guidance 

and recommendations concerning 

the construction of coastal residential 

buildings. 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2138

Tornado Recovery Advisories 

E, C, CO, H, 

The Recovery Advisories provide 

information about tornado risk, sheltering from tornadoes, and improving 

manufactured homes against damage 

from high winds.

2011 Recovery Advisories in Alabama, Mississippi, 

Tennessee, Georgia, and Missouri

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4723

2007 Tornado Recovery Advisories in Florida 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2631

2007 Tornado Recovery Advisories in Kansas 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2972

Wind Retrofit Guide for Residential 

Buildings (FEMA P-804, December

2010) E, C, H,   

The purpose of this Guide is to provide guidance on how to improve the 

wind resistance of existing residential 

buildings in Mississippi and across the 

Gulf Coast. Although this Guide was 

developed to support initiatives in the Gulf Coast region, 

the content of this document should serve as guidance 

during high-wind events in all coastal regions.

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=4569

Building Science for 

Disaster-Resistant

Communities: Wind

Hazard Publications

FEMA L-780 / November 2011

Hurricane Katrina

in the Gulf Coast Mitigation Assessment Team Report

Building Performance Observations, Recommendations, 

and Technical Guidance

FEMA 549 / July 2006 

FEMA

Tornado Risks and Hazards in the Midwest United States HSFEHQ-07-J-0020 / August 2007 Page 1 of 5

Purpose and Intended Audience

The purpose of this Tornado Recovery Advisory (RA) is to

summarize facts about the Midwest tornado hazard,

the area served by FEMA Region VII. Region VII includes Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, and Nebraska. The general population, homeowners and renters, policy makers, local builders, and building know and understand

that tornado occurrence in the Midwest is not a rare event. In

fact, more than half of the 20 states with the highest frequency of tornado occurrence on record, and 4 of the top5(Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and Nebraska) are located in the Midwest.

In addition, this RA FEMA resources that can be used to help design and construct shelters that provide safe haven from tornadoes. These resources also guide construction of most building types (including

residences) to minimize damage from extreme wind events.

This Recovery Advisory Addresses: Recent events

Tornado occurrence in “Tornado Alley”

Assessing risk

Can a building survive a tornado? Yes! Weather radios

Recent Events On the evening of May 4, 2007, “supercell”

thunderstorms formed across portions of

the Midwestern U.S., spawning tornadoes

in several states. An intense supercell developed southwest of Greensburg, Kansas

that evening, resulting in the formation of 12

tornadoes. One of these tornadoes formed in

northwest Comanche County at approximately 9:00 pm and moved northeastward through Kiowa County. At about 9:45 pm, this tornado

reached Greensburg, Kansas, a small community of approximately 1,400 people, and

traveled from the town’s southern edge to its northwest border. The tornado was rated an EF5 (see sidebar) with an estimated wind speed greater than 205 miles per hour (mph) and had a reported swath of 1.7 miles. The tornado destroyed or severely damaged the majority of the buildings in Greensburg and caused the deaths of 10 people. The death toll in Greensburg could have been higher were it not for a 20-minute tornado warning issued by the National Weather Service that gave the residents time to take refuge.

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?

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See these 2007 Tornado Recovery Advisories for information about sheltering from tornadoes: Storm Shelters: Selecting Design Criteria (Tornado RA2) Residential Sheltering: In-Residence and Stand-Alone Shelters(Tornado RA3)

●

●

MAY 2007 TORNADO RECOVERY ADVISORY FEMA DR-1699-RA1

Tornado Risks and Hazards in the 

Midwest United States

The Fujita Scale categorizes tornado severity based on

observed damage. The six-step scale ranges from F0

(light damage) to F5 (incredible damage). Since February 2007, the National Weather Service has used the Enhanced Fujita Scale (EF Scale). This new scale ranges

from EF0 to EF5. See http://www.spc.noaa.gov/efscale/

for further information on the EF Scale.

Fujita Scale EF Scale Fujita Scale 3-Second Gust Speed (mph) EF Scale 3-Second Gust Speed (mph) F0 45–78 EF0 65–85

F1 79–117 EF1 86–109

F2 118–161 EF2 110–137

F3 162–209 EF3 138–167

F4 210–261 EF4 168–199

F5 262–317 EF5 200–234

Brace Gable End Roof 

Framing

PROTECTING YOUR PROPERTY FROM HIGH WINDS

Brace Gable End Roof Framing April 2008 Page 1 of 2

Gable end roofs are more susceptible to damage from high winds than hip or flat roofs. The gable end presents a large, flat obstacle to 

the wind and receives its full force. If the framing of the gable end and the entire roof is not adequately braced to resist the wind, the roof can fail. Roof failures, especially in unbraced gable roofs, are a common cause of major damage to structures and their contents in high winds. 

If your property has a gable roof, check to see whether the roof framing is braced. The top 

figure shows a cutaway view of an unbraced gable end roof. This is a truss roof, but some gable end roofs are constructed with rafters 

rather than trusses. Both types should be braced as shown in the bottom figure. If you are unsure whether your gable end roof is adequately braced, check with your local building

department. After inspecting your roof framing, a building official can tell you whether bracing is

required and if so, how it should be added. 

BENEFITS OF UTILIZING THIS MITIGATION STRATEGY 

Helps to prevent roof failure, which can lead

to major damage of a structure and its contents Helps to prevent injuries to occupants 

TIPS

Keep these points in mind if you have bracing

added to a gable end roof: 

•

•

•

Bracing can be added fairly easily, but you should have a contractor perform the work to make sure that

the bracing is properly designed and attached. 

• If you have a building official inspect your roof framing, ask about other changes you may be able to make

to your property to protect it from high winds. 

rooms that will pro

Technical Bulletins 

E, C, CO, H,   

• Guide-0 User’s Guide to Technical Bulletins (TB-0, March 2009) 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1481

• Openings in Foundation Walls and 

Walls of Enclosures (TB-1, August

2008) 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1579

• Flood Damage-Resistant Materials Requirements

(TB-2, August 2008) 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1580

• 

 (FIA-TB-3, April 1993) 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1716

• Elevator Installation (TB-4, November 2010) 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1717

• Free-of-Obstruction Requirements (TB-5, August 

2008) 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1718

• Below-Grade Parking Requirements (FIA-TB-6, 

April 1993) 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1719

• (FIA-TB-7, 

December, 1993) 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1720

• Corrosion Protection for Metal Connectors in

Coastal Areas (FIA-TB-8, August 1996) 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1721 

• Design and Construction Guidance for Breakaway

Walls Below Elevated Coastal Buildings (TB-9,

August 2008) 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1722

• Ensuring that Structures Built on Fill In or Near 

Special Flood Hazard Areas are Reasonably Safe 

From Flooding (FIA-TB-10, May 2001) 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1723

• Crawlspace Construction for Buildings Located in

Special Flood Hazard Areas (FIA-TB-11, November

2001) 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1724

Building Science for 

Disaster-Resistant

Communities: Flood

Hazard Publications

FEMA L-782 / November 2011

readers who have little or no knowledge about 

techniques.

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1420

Protecting Building Utilities From

Flood Damage (FEMA 348, 

November 1999) E, C, CO, H,   

The overall objective of this document is to assist in the construction 

of buildings with utility systems that

are designed and built so that the

buildings can be reoccupied and 

fully operational as soon as electricity, sewer, and 

water are restored to the neighborhood.

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1750

Above the Flood: Elevating Your

Floodprone House (FEMA 347,

May 2000) E, C, H,   

-

prone houses in south Florida were

level following Hurricane Andrew

(1992) and also presents alternative 

elevation techniques.

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1424

Home Builder’s Guide to Coastal 

Construction Technical Fact Sheet

Series (FEMA P-499, December

2010) E, C, CO, H,   

This document contains a series of

37 fact sheets that provide technical guidance and recommendations

concerning the construction of

coastal residential buildings. 

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2138

Reducing Flood Losses Through the

International Codes (Third Edition,

August 2008) E, C, CO,  

The third edition of this guide is

intended to help community officials

decide how to integrate the 2006 

edition (and 2007 Supplement) of

the International Codes (I-Codes)

processes in order to meet the requirements to participate in the NFIP.

https://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=2094 L-782 / 09345-3

f ll ti l

Protecting Building

Utilities From Flood

Damage Principles and Practices for the Design and Construction of

Flood Resistant Building Utility Systems

FEMA 348, Edition 1 / November 1999

FEMA
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

FEMA L-235 – Homeowner’s Guide to Retrofitting (December 2009) : 4

This brochure presents a brief overview of the information in FEMA P-312, Homeowner's Guide to Retrofitting: Six Ways to Protect Your Home From Flooding. It also 

provides information that will help you decide whether your home is a candidate 

for retrofitting.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1681

FEMA L-233 – Taking Shelter From the Storm: Building a Safe Room For Your Home 

or Small Business (December 2008) : 4

This brochure is about FEMA 320, Taking Shelter From the Storm: Building a Safe 

Room For Your Home or Small Business, which is now in its third edition. It briefly 

describes how having a safe room built for your home or small business can 

help provide “near-absolute protection” for you and your family or employees from injury or death caused by the dangerous forces of extreme winds 

such as tornadoes and hurricanes. This brochure is also available in Spanish.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3510

Reducing Flood Losses Through the International Codes: Meeting the Requirements of the 

National Flood Insurance Program (December 2009) : 4

The primary purpose of this brochure is to help communities decide how to 

coordinate the I-Codes with their floodplain management programs and land 

development procedures. It discusses the benefits of disaster-resistant codes, 

community responsibilities under the NFIP, and the benefits of adopting standards that exceed the minimum requirements.

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3563

Protect Your Property or Business From Disaster Series

In this series of publications you can find information on how to protect yourself, your home, 

business, and property from various hazards. The publications are divided into three categories: 

natural hazards, flooding, and high winds. 

http://www.fema.gov/plan/prevent/howto/index.shtm

Protect Your Business From All Natural Hazards :

These two publications describe how protecting your business from disasters caused by natural hazards can involve a variety of actions, from inspecting and maintaining your buildings to 

installing protective devices. Most of these actions, especially those that affect the structure of 

your buildings or their utility systems, should be carried out by qualified maintenance staff or 

professional contractors licensed to work in your state, county, or city. One example of disaster 

protection is safely storing the important documents, electronic files, raw materials, and inventory required for the operation of your business.
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

1. Install a Generator for Emergency Power 

2. Protect Business Records and Inventory 

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3259

Protect Your Property From Flooding :

These four publications offer information on how protecting your property from flooding can 

involve a variety of actions, from inspecting and maintaining the building to installing protective devices. Most of these actions, especially those that affect the structure of your building or 

its utility systems, should be carried out by qualified maintenance staff or professional contractors licensed to work in your state, county, or city. 

1. Install Sewer Backflow Valves

2. Anchor Fuel Tanks

3. Raise Electrical System Components 

4. Build With Flood Damage Resistant Materials 

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3262

Protect Your Property From High Winds :

These eight publications offer information on how protecting your property from high winds 

can involve a variety of actions, from inspecting and maintaining your building to installing 

protective devices. Most of these actions, especially those that affect the exterior shell of your 

building, should be carried out by qualified maintenance staff or professional contractors 

licensed to work in your state, county, or city. For buildings with Exterior Insulation Finishing 

System (EIFS) walls, a type of wall often used for commercial buildings, one example of wind 

protection is inspecting and maintaining the walls.

1. Protect Windows and Doors with Covers 

2. Reinforce or Replace Garage Doors 

3. Brace Gable End Roof Framing

4. Secure Composition Shingle Roofs

5. Secure Built-Up and Single-Ply Roofs

6. Secure Metal Siding and Metal Roofs 

7. Remove Trees and Potential Windborne Missiles

8. Maintain EIFS Walls

http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3263
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

TRAINING COURSES AND WORKSHOPS

Numerous training courses/workshops have been developed by FEMA Building Science. These 

courses/workshops are typically offered either in the field or in conferences. They can also be 

offered at FEMA’s Emergency Management Institute (EMI) in Emmitsburg, Maryland. 

WIND

Retrofitting Residential Buildings for Wind Hazards (FEMA P-804)

This 1⁄2 day course is to provide guidance on how to improve the wind resistance of existing residential buildings in the U.S. coastal regions where design wind speeds exceed 90 mph. This 

improved resistance can be achieved through the Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced “Mitigation 

Packages,” which offer incrementally resistant retrofit options for the homeowner. This course 

teaches how to select and implement effective wind retrofit projects for one- and two family 

dwellings. It does not apply to manufactured housing. This course follows the content of FEMA 

P-804, Wind Retrofit Guide for Residential Buildings. 

There are multiple intended audiences for this course. Homeowners should be involved in 

the process of the wind retrofit project; they must understand who must understand the benefits and costs of each potential decisions. In turn, homeowners will work with their evaluator, 

design professional (if necessary), and contractor to determine which wind retrofit project is 

most appropriate. State and local governments and entities that have mitigation programs in 

hurricane-prone regions will also benefit from this course by using the information to deliver 

technical assistance to the public.

If you are interested in this workshop please call the FEMA flood/wind helpline at (866) 

927-2104 (toll free) or email: FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@dhs.gov.

COASTAL

Coastal Construction Workshop for Home Builders (FEMA P-499) 

FEMA developed a series of 37 technical fact sheets that provide guidance and recommendations 

concerning the construction of coastal residential buildings. The fact sheets present information aimed at improving the performance of buildings subject to flood and wind forces in 

coastal environments. This introductory-level 3-hour training is made available to construction 

professionals in coastal areas to facilitate their understanding and use of these technical fact 

sheets and the design and construction practices they promote.

The goal of the workshop is to provide a practical learning experience that enables participants, upon completion of the workshop, to cite best practices that result in reduced damages 

to homes affected by coastal storms, locate information as needed in the Home Builder’s Guide to 

Coastal Construction fact sheets, and implement building practices that will improve the performance of buildings subject to flood and wind forces in coastal environments.

If you are interested in this workshop please call the FEMA flood/wind helpline at (866) 

927-2104 (toll free) or email: FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@dhs.gov.
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

Introduction to Coastal Foundation Design and Construction for Design Professionals (FEMA P-550)

This 1-day course is the second of two courses on FEMA P-550, Recommended Residential Construction for Coastal Areas, developed by FEMA and is geared to design professionals. The course 

focuses on the guidance contained in the manual. It discusses the unique loads foundations 

must resist in coastal and near coastal areas (flood, debris, breaking waves, etc.); addresses NFIP 

requirements; and discusses designing for high-wind events and for erosion and scour. The 

course describes the assumptions used in developing the FEMA P-550 foundation designs and 

how the designs can be customized by professionals to develop foundations for specific homes. 

Copies of FEMA P-550 and a Student Manual will be provided.

If you are interested in this workshop please call the FEMA flood/wind helpline at (866) 

927-2104 (toll free) or email: FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@dhs.gov.

Residential Coastal Construction (EMI 386)

FEMA designed this 41⁄2-day course to train participants on FEMA’s Coastal Construction Manual (FEMA P-55), which is the primary, state-of-the-art reference for planning, designing, and 

constructing residential structures in various coastal environments. The target audience is engineers, architects, and building code officials. Floodplain management, hazard mitigation, 

planning, and building officials with building science knowledge may also apply. The course is 

taught at EMI. An Independent Study Course is also available. 

If you are interested in this workshop please call the FEMA flood/wind helpline at (866) 

927-2104 (toll free) or email: FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@dhs.gov.

FLOOD

Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential Buildings (EMI 279) 

FEMA developed a technical training course on proper methods of retrofitting residential 

buildings. This course is designed to provide engineering and economic guidance to architects, engineers, and local code enforcement officials on retrofitting existing one- to four-family 

residential structures situated in flood-prone areas. The retrofitting measures presented are 

creative, practical, compliant with applicable floodplain regulations, and satisfactory to most 

homeowners. The course is available as a 1-week course offered several times a year at EMI or 

as a 2-day field-deployed version. For technical assistance in offering the field course, contact 

your NFIP State Coordinator, FEMA Regional Offices, or Disaster Field Office. To register for 

the EMI course, all applications must be submitted through your State Emergency Management 

Training Office. 

If you are interested in this workshop please call the FEMA flood/wind helpline at (866) 

927-2104 (toll free) or email: FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@dhs.gov.

The Flood Provisions of the International Code Series and ASCE 24

This 4-hour workshop presents basic information needed to understand the flood provisions 

of the International Code Series and ASCE 24, Flood Resistant Design and Construction and the 

importance of coordinating local floodplain management ordinances with building codes. The 

2009, 2006, and 2003 editions of the International Codes (I-Codes) contain flood-resistant 

provisions that FEMA has determined to be consistent with the NFIP. Reading materials will be 

distributed in advance. Participants will learn how the I-Code provisions are consistent with the 
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

NFIP regulations; understand the relationship between the I-Codes and ASCE 24: learn about 

distinctions between the I-Codes and ASCE 24, and the NFIP regulations; learn the importance 

of coordinating the I-Codes with local floodplain management ordinances; and review a sample 

“companion” ordinance designed specifically to coordinate with the I-Codes.

If you are interested in this workshop please call the FEMA flood/wind helpline at (866) 

927-2104 (toll free) or email: FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@dhs.gov.

MULTI-HAZARD

Multi-Hazard Mitigation Design Considerations (EMI 312)

This 21⁄2-day course is designed to introduce potential natural hazard impacts on the performance 

of the constructed environment. The target audience is Federal, State, and local emergency 

response staff; local building officials; and other building professionals responsible for the design and/or operation of buildings or other infrastructure facilities. Hazards discussed include 

floods, winds, earthquakes, and wildfires. The behavior of each hazard is reviewed, followed by 

a discussion of their potential impacts on or threats to buildings and infrastructure. The threats 

are evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively. The introduction to each hazard is followed by a 

discussion of mitigation strategies and techniques proven to be effective in mitigating the effects 

of that hazard. After discussions of the individual hazards are complete, the mitigation measures are represented for further evaluation relative to hazards other than the specific hazard 

for which it was originally intended. The focus is to not only identify mitigation strategies that 

may reduce the risks from more than one hazard, but also to consider the potential unintended 

increased risks from another hazard.

If you are interested in this workshop please call the flood/wind helpline at (866) 927-2104 (toll 

free) or email: FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@dhs.gov.

Design Guide for Improving Critical Facility Safety from Flooding and High Winds: Providing Protection 

to People and Buildings (FEMA 543)

This 2-day course on FEMA 543 was developed to help improve the design, construction, reconstruction, and rehabilitation of critical facilities in areas exposed to flooding and high winds. 

The target audience is architects and engineers with existing knowledge of building science. 

The performance of critical facilities (e.g., hospitals, fire and police stations, schools, and emergency operations centers) during recent natural disasters has been impaired by storm-related 

damages, as documented by post-disaster reports. Critical facilities provide critical life-safety 

services to citizens of affected areas. The course is intended to enable participants to support 

and implement design techniques and construction practices that will improve building performance and result in critical facilities remaining fully operational during and after flooding and 

high-wind events. 

If you are interested in this workshop please call the FEMA flood/wind helpline at (866) 

927-2104 (toll free) or email: FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@dhs.gov.
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

SAFE ROOMS

Design and Construction of Safe Rooms for Architects and Engineers (FEMA 361/320) 

This 2-day training course discusses design and construction of community and residential safe 

rooms. The target audience is architects, engineers, and emergency managers. The course uses 

as its base text the two popular publications FEMA 361, Design and Construction Guidance for Community Safe Rooms, Second Edition (2008), and FEMA 320, Taking Shelter from the Storm: Building a 

Safe Room for Your Home or Small Business, Third Edition (2008). The training discusses how both 

hazard identification, and design and construction criteria (specific to tornado, hurricane, and 

combined hazards) have changed over the years. In addition, how the FEMA publications are in 

alignment with the minimum requirements of the International Code Council/National Storm 

Shelter Association (ICC/NSSA) 500 Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters

(ICC 500-2008) is discussed. Specific guidance and design criteria for operational or emergency 

management issues, which are not addressed in the ICC 500, are also described. The presentation also covers the elements of wind and flood design criteria in FEMA 361 that remain more 

restrictive than those of the ICC 500 standard. The latter is important because FEMA 361 is the 

basis of the technical design criteria used for FEMA grant programs that fund the design and 

construction of hurricane and tornado safe rooms.

If you are interested in this workshop please call the FEMA safe room helpline at (866) 222-3580 

(toll free) or email: Saferoom@dhs.gov.

Evaluating Buildings for Extreme-Wind Refuge Areas

This 1-day training course focuses on the evaluation of proposed areas or buildings for use as 

community safe rooms or, if they do not meet the FEMA 361, Design and Construction Guidance 

for Community Safe Rooms, Second Edition (2008) criteria, areas of last resort. The target audience is architects, engineers, school officials, and emergency managers. The course provides 

background on safe room design and construction issues in FEMA 361 and FEMA P-431, Tornado Protection Selecting Refuge Areas in Buildings, Second Edition (2009) and reviews the use of the 

Extreme-Wind Refuge Area Evaluation Checklists provided in Appendix B of FEMA 361. After a 

review of tornado and hurricane wind hazards, the instructors discuss FEMA 361 design criteria 

and present checklists and tools for building evaluations. Students will have the opportunity to 

complete a case study by evaluating a structure while using the FEMA 361 Appendix B checklists. 

This workshop also includes a field exercise where participants use the evaluation checklists 

from FEMA 361 to walk through a facility and score and select refuge areas. 

If you are interested in this workshop please call the FEMA safe room helpline at (866) 222-3580 

(toll free) or email: Saferoom@dhs.gov.

Preparing a Successful Safe Room Grant Application

This training course focuses on the requirements to develop a successful safe room grant application. The target audience is state and local officials as well as engineers and architects. The 

course covers all of the requirements of FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) 

and Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program safe room grant applications. After a brief review of tornado and hurricane wind hazards, the instructors discuss FEMA 361, Design and 

Construction Guidance for Community Safe Rooms, Second Edition (2008) design criteria, essential documentation that must be included in the grant application, and tools such as checklists, 
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

sample documents, and reference materials that are useful in the design and construction of 

safe rooms. The course demonstrates the more difficult aspects of information gathering by 

having participants complete a grant subapplication as a case study exercise.

If you are interested in this workshop please call the FEMA safe room helpline at (866) 

222-3580 (toll free) or email: Saferoom@dhs.gov. 

TOOLS

SI/SD – Using FEMA Guidance to Administer the NFIP Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage 

Requirements

This workshop will focus on using the SI/SD Desk Reference (FEMA P-758) to administer 

the NFIP requirements in local floodplain management regulations and building codes. The 

workshop covers the basics of making SI/SD determinations while illustrating how the Desk 

Reference is organized and the level of detail that it has on all aspects of the SI/SD requirements. There are many factors that local officials need to consider and several scenarios they 

may encounter while administering the SI/SD requirements, which are required by the International Codes Series. Emphasis is placed on all aspects of buildings that must be brought into 

compliance, which depend on flood zone and building occupancy. Some of the more common 

examples are discussed, including interior-only improvements, lateral and vertical additions, 

and historic structures. Following this workshop, the learner will understand and be able to effectively administer SI/SD requirements. Learners already familiar with SI/SD requirements 

will further their understanding of how administering SI/SD responsibilities fits into the overall picture of floodplain management through day-to-day and post-disaster activities. The target 

audience for this workshop includes State and local floodplain managers, building officials, and 

plan reviewers.

If you are interested in this workshop please call the FEMA flood/wind helpline at (866) 

927-2104 (toll free) or email: FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@dhs.gov.

FEMA P-784 Substantial Damage Estimator

The Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) Train-the-Trainer Course is a 2-day course designed 

to teach students about the SDE software and explain how the property-specific results are used 

to ensure compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). It can also be used 

to secure Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) funding for property owners following flood 

events. The SDE software was developed to assist State and local officials in estimating both residential and non-residential building value and damage costs using FEMA-accepted approaches. 

The SDE software is based on the concept of using damage estimates for individual building 

elements to determine whether the structure as a whole is substantially damaged. This computer application was created to support enforcement of the NFIP’s regulatory requirements and 

is intended to be used in conjunction with an industry-accepted construction cost-estimating 

guide. 

Using the SDE-calculated building values, the user can apply a “Percent Damaged” or “Improved” value to establish a substantial damage/improvement determination for each structure. 

The SDE application is designed to accommodate residential and non-residential buildings 

such as, single-family residences, manufactured homes, schools, office buildings, police stations, 

hospitals, courthouses, department stores, grocery and convenience stores, and strip malls.
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

If you are interested in this workshop please call the FEMA flood/wind helpline at (866) 

927-2104 (toll free) or email: FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@dhs.gov.

The SDE Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) Web-Based Course (late 2012)

FEMA is developing a 4- to 6-hour web-based technical presentation on Substantial Damage 

estimating and use of the SDE Tool, and technical guidance on the Substantial Improvement/

Substantial Damage (SI/SD) Desk Reference. The technical presentation will be designed for 

end users of the SDE Tool and will cover all aspects of the SDE, including field inspections and 

assessments, data collection and entry, evaluation and determination of the percent damage for 

each structure element, quality control, and data assessment, as well as use of the SDE results at 

the local level in new construction or repair processes. This new guidance will coincide with the 

enhancements to the SDE Tool and is scheduled for release by the end of 2012.

If you are interested in this workshop please call the FEMA flood/wind helpline at (866) 

927-2104 (toll free) or email: FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@dhs.gov.

Table 1. Publications Included in This Catalog 

Publication 

No. Title Page 

No.

Flood 

Damage

Wind 

Damage

Wildfire 

Damage Accessibility

FIA 22 Hurricane Andrew in Florida: Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance

13 3 :

FIA 23 Hurricane Iniki in Hawaii: Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance

13 3 3 :

FEMA P-55 Coastal Construction Manual (Fourth Edition) 2 3 3 : 4 8

FEMA P-85 Protecting Manufactured Homes from Floods and 

Other Hazards (Second Edition)

5 3 3 : 4 8

FEMA P-259 Engineering Principles and Practices for Retrofitting 

Flood-Prone Residential Structures (Third Edition)

2 3 : 4 8

FEMA 277 The Oklahoma City Bombing: Improving Building 

Performance Through Multi-Hazard Mitigation

16 :

FEMA 281 Hurricane Opal in Florida 13 3 : 4

FEMA 290 Mitigation Assessment Team Report: Hurricane 

Fran in North Carolina: Building Performance 

Observations, Recommendations, and Technical 

Guidance

12 3 3 : 4

FEMA P-312 Homeowner’s Guide to Retrofitting (Second Edition) 4 3 : 4 8

FEMA 320 Taking Shelter From the Storm: Building a Safe Room 

For Your Home or Small Business (Third Edition)

6 3 : 4 8

FEMA 338 Hurricane Georges in the Gulf Coast: Building 

Performance Observations, Recommendations, and 

Technical Guidance

12 3 3 : 4

FEMA 339 Hurricane Georges in Puerto Rico: Building 

Performance Observations, Recommendations, and 

Technical Guidance

12 3 3 : 4

FEMA 342 Midwest Tornadoes of May 3, 1999: Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance

14 3 : 4

FEMA 347 Above the Flood: Elevating Your Floodprone House 7 3 : 4 8

FEMA 348 Protecting Building Utilities From Flood Damage: 

Principles and Practices for the Design and 

Construction of Flood Resistant Building Utility 

Systems

7 3 : 4
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

Table 1. Publications Included in This Catalog (continued) 

Publication 

No. Title Page 

No.

Flood 

Damage

Wind 

Damage

Wildfire 

Damage Accessibility

FEMA 361 Design and Construction Guidance for Community 

Safe Rooms (Second Edition)

6 3 : 4 8

FEMA 388 CD Safe Room Resources CD 5 3 8

FEMA 403 World Trade Center Building Performance Study: 

Data Collection, Preliminary Observations, and 

Recommendations

16 :

FEMA P-424 Design Guide for School Safety in Earthquakes, 

Floods, and High Winds

17 3 3 : 4

FEMA P-431 Tornado Protection: Selecting Refuge Areas in 

Buildings (Second Edition)

5 3 : 4

FEMA 488 Hurricane Charley in Florida: Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance

11 3 3 : 4

FEMA 489 Hurricane Ivan in Alabama and Florida: Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance

11 3 3 : 4 8

FEMA 490 Summary Report on Building Performance 2004 

Hurricane Season

12 3 3 : 4

FEMA 497 National Flood Mitigation Data Collection Tool and 

RLP Viewer - User’s Guide (FEMA 497)

20 3 :

FEMA 497 Repetitive Loss Property (RLP) Viewer 2.0 20 3 :

FEMA P-499 Home Builder’s Guide to Coastal Construction, 

Technical Fact Sheet Series (37 Fact Sheets)

2 3 3 : 4 8

FEMA 543 Design Guide for Improving Critical Facility Safety 

from Flooding and High Winds

17 3 3 :

FEMA 548 Summary Report on Building Performance: Hurricane 

Katrina 2005

10 3 3 : 4

FEMA 549 Hurricane Katrina in the Gulf Coast: Building 

Performance Observations, Recommendations, and 

Technical Guidance

10 3 3 : 4 8

FEMA P-550 Recommended Residential Construction in Coastal 

Areas: Building on Strong and Safe Foundations 

(Second Edition)

4 3 3 : 4 8

FEMA 577 Design Guide for Improving Hospital Safety in 

Earthquakes, Floods, and High Winds

17 3 3 :

FEMA P-737 Home Builder’s Guide to Construction in Wildfire 

Zones Technical Fact Sheet Series (17 Fact Sheets)

6 3 : 4 8

FEMA P-754 Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Handbook for Public 

Facilities 

6 3 :

FEMA P-757 Hurricane Ike in Texas and Louisiana: Building 

Performance Observations, Recommendations, and 

Technical Guidance

10 3 3 : 4 8

FEMA P-758 Substantial Improvement/Substantial Damage Desk 

Reference 

4 3 : 4 8

FEMA P-762 Local Officials Guide for Coastal Construction 5 3 3 : 4 8

FEMA P-765 Midwest Floods of 2008 in Iowa and 

Wisconsin: Building Performance Observations, 

Recommendations, and Technical Guidance 

15 3 : 4 8

FEMA P-784 CD The FEMA Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) 

(Version 1.1, September 2011)

20 3 : 8
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Contents Table 1 – Publications

Publication 

No. Title Page 

No.

Flood 

Damage

Wind 

Damage

Wildfire 

Damage Accessibility

FEMA B-797 Hazard Mitigation Field Book: Roadways 4 3 :

FEMA P-798 Natural Hazards and Sustainability for Residential 

Buildings

3 3 3 : 4 8

FEMA P-804 Wind Retrofit Guide for Residential Buildings 3 3 : 4 8

FEMA P-908 Mitigation Assessment Team Report – April and May 

2011 Tornadoes in Alabama, Georgia, Mississippi, 

Tennessee, and Missouri

14 3

Recovery Advisories

Hurricane Charley (2004) Recovery Advisories 11 3 :

Hurricane Katrina (2005) Recovery Advisories 11 3 3 :

Hurricane Ike (2008) Recovery Advisories 10 3 3 :

2007 Tornados in Florida Recovery Advisories 15 3 :

2007 Tornadoes in Kansas Recovery Advisories 15 3 :

2011 Tornado Recovery Advisories in Alabama, 

Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Missouri 

14 3 :

Midwest Floods (2008) Recovery Advisories 15 3 :

Technical Bulletins

FEMA TB-0 User’s Guide to NFIP Technical Bulletins 17 3 : 4

FEMA TB-1 Openings in Foundation Walls and Walls of 

Enclosures

18 3 : 4

FEMA TB-2 Flood Damage-Resistant Materials Requirements 18 3 : 4

FIA TB-3 Non-Residential Floodproofing – Requirements and 

Certification 

18 3 : 4

FEMA TB-4 Elevator Installation 18 3 : 4

FEMA TB-5 Free-of-Obstruction Requirements 18 3 : 4

FIA TB-6 Below-Grade Parking Requirements 19 3 : 4

FIA TB-7 Wet Floodproofing Requirements 19 3 : 4

FIA TB-8 Corrosion Protection for Metal Connectors in Coastal 

Areas

19 3 : 4

FEMA TB-9 Design and Construction Guidance for Breakaway 

Walls Below Elevated Coastal Buildings

19 3 : 4

FIA TB-10 Ensuring That Structures Built on Fill In or Near 

Special Flood Hazard Areas Are Reasonably Safe 

From Flooding 

19 3 : 4

FIA TB-11 Crawlspace Construction for Buildings Located in 

Special Flood Hazard Areas 

19 3 : 4

Brochures

FEMA L-233 Taking Shelter From the Storm: Building a Safe 

Room For Your Home or Small Business

22 3 : 4

FEMA L-235 Homeowner’s Guide to Retrofitting 22 3 : 4

FEMA L-780 Building Science for Disaster-Resistant 

Communities: Wind Hazard Publications

21 3 :

FEMA L-781 Building Science for Disaster-Resistant 

Communities: Hurricane Hazard Publications

21 3 :

Table 1. Publications Included in This Catalog (continued)
32 : AVAILABLE ONLINE 4 AVAILABLE IN PRINT 8 AVAILABLE ON CD 

Contents Table 1 – Publications

Publication 

No. Title Page 

No.

Flood 

Damage

Wind 

Damage

Wildfire 

Damage Accessibility

FEMA L-782 Building Science for Disaster-Resistant 

Communities: Flood Hazard Publications

21 3 :

Reducing Flood Losses Through the International 

Codes: Meeting the Requirements of the National 

Flood Insurance Program 

22 3 :

Protect Your Property or Business From Disaster Series

Protect Your Business From All Natural Hazards 22 3 3 3 :

Protect Your Property From Flooding 23 3 :

Protect Your Property From High Winds 23 3 :

Other

CodeMaster for Flood Resistant Design (2011) 7 3 4

Flood Hazard Mitigation Handbook for Public 

Facilities

8 3 :

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2012 International 

Code Series 

8 3 :

Flood Resistant Provisions of the 2009 International 

Code Series 

8 3 :

Highlights of ASCE 24-05 Flood Resistant Design and 

Construction 

9 3 :

Hurricane Mitigation: A Handbook for Public Facilities 8 3 :

I-Codes Sample Checklists for Flood Hazards 9 3 :

Provisions of the 2009 I-Codes and ASCE 24 

Compared to the NFIP 

9 3 :

Reducing Flood Losses Through the International 

Code Series (Third Edition)

8 3 : 4

Training Courses And Workshops Contact Information

WIND

Retrofitting Residential Buildings for Wind Hazards (FEMA P-804) 24 3 FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@

dhs.gov

COASTAL

Coastal Construction Workshop for Home Builders (FEMA P-499) 24 3 3 FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@

dhs.gov

Introduction to Coastal Foundation Design and Construction for 

Design Professionals (FEMA P-550)

25 3 3 FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@

dhs.gov

Residential Coastal Construction (EMI 386) 25 3 3 FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@

dhs.gov

FLOOD

Retrofitting Flood-Prone Residential Buildings (EMI 279) 25 3 FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@

dhs.gov

The Flood Provisions of the International Code Series and ASCE 24 25 3 FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@

dhs.gov

MULTI-HAZARD

Multi-Hazard Mitigation Design Considerations (EMI 312) 26 3 3 FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@

dhs.gov

Design Guide for Improving Critical Facility Safety from Flooding and 

High Winds: Providing Protection to People and Buildings (FEMA 543)

26 3 3 FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@

dhs.gov

Table 1. Publications Included in This Catalog (continued) 
: AVAILABLE ONLINE 4 AVAILABLE IN PRINT 8 AVAILABLE ON CD 33

Contents Table 1 – Publications

Table 1. Publications Included in This Catalog (continued) 

Publication 

No. Title Page 

No.

Flood 

Damage

Wind 

Damage

Wildfire 

Damage Accessibility

Training Courses And Workshops (continued) Contact Information

SAFE ROOMS

Design and Construction of Safe Rooms for Architects and Engineers 

(FEMA 361/320) 

27 3 Saferoom@dhs.gov

Evaluating Buildings for Extreme-Wind Refuge Areas 27 3 Saferoom@dhs.gov

Preparing a Successful Safe Room Grant Application 27 3 Saferoom@dhs.gov

TOOLS

SI/SD Using FEMA Guidance to Administer the NFIP Substantial 

Improvement/Substantial Damage Requirements

28 3 FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@

dhs.gov

Substantial Damage Estimator (FEMA P-784) 28 3 FEMA-Buildingsciencehelp@

dhs.gov

The SDE Substantial Damage Estimator (SDE) Web-Based Course 

(late 2012)

29 3


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