FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 15, 2008

CONTACT:

RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO AID IN DISASTER RECOVERY

WASHINGTON, D.C.---Heritage Emergency National Task Force resources help archives, libraries, historic sites, museums, and the public cope with damage from disasters. Please share the following resources with colleagues affected by recent hurricanes, tropical storms, and tornadoes.

Submit damage reports and find contact information for state cultural and emergency management agencies at the Task Force Hurricanes and Tropical Storms 2008 <www.heritagepreservation.org/PROGRAMS/TFcurrent.html> Web page. Each of the following resources is available from this page.
Expert advice for libraries, museums, and the public on rescuing treasures from water damage is available as free streaming video. Practical tips on safety, salvage priorities, and equipment help the viewer get started on the rescue of photographs, books, documents, and other valued items.

· The award-winning Field Guide to Emergency Response and Emergency Response and Salvage Wheel provide clear and practical advice on dealing with disasters that affect cultural resources. An instructional DVD accompanies the Field Guide. A rapid collections assessment form and supply lists are available to download.

Guide to Navigating FEMA and SBA Disaster Aid for Cultural Institutions (in print or online) leads cultural institutions through the process of applying to FEMA and the Small Business Administration for assistance after major disasters. All of the necessary forms are included.
Working with Emergency Responders: Tips for Cultural Institutions (poster) provides practical advice on how to find and build relationships with local emergency responders, what responders need to know to better protect cultural institutions, and how to interact with emergency response professionals before, during, and after an emergency.

· Save Your Treasures the Right Way provides simple guidelines for the public to help them salvage family photographs and other heirlooms. Streaming video illustrates the guidelines. Both resources are ideal for use online or in newspaper and newsletter articles.

Heritage Emergency National Task Force
The Task Force is a partnership of 40 national service organizations and federal agencies created to protect cultural heritage from the damaging effects of natural disasters and other emergencies. The Task Force was founded in 1995 and is co-sponsored by Heritage Preservation and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Heritage Preservation
For over 30 years, Heritage Preservation has been the national, nonprofit advocate for the proper care of all cultural heritage-in museums, libraries, homes, and town squares.

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