Visit the FEMA web site for access to online versions of the Emergency Response and Salvage Wheels and for contact information to order your own set. It includes an extensive collection of informational leaflets on disaster planning, recovery, and salvage. Supplies to have on hand before a disaster strikes. How to respond to a disaster. When a disaster strikes, a quick response is crucial.
Time is the most critical factor, particularly in disasters where water damage is involved.
Mold and mildew will set in within 48 to 72 hours after materials are exposed to wet conditions. The main objectives in disaster response are to stabilize the condition of the collection to prohibit further damage, and to salvage the highest priority materials in the collection first, in order to minimize overall losses. One must know in advance what the collection priorities are, in order to achieve the latter. Damage assessment should preclude making decisions regarding what procedures will be followed. Return to the top.