Projects that protect.

Mitigation is a way to lessen the impact of a disaster on a community through preparedness, structural hardening, and infrastructure projects. Involvement in the Local Mitigation Strategy (LMS) Committee is your gateway to mitigation funding.

Why mitigate?

• For every dollar invested it is estimated you save $4 in potential losses
• May protect your loved ones, homes and businesses from harm
• Helps a community recover more quickly from a disaster

How we help local communities through mitigation

Walton County Emergency Management runs the Local Mitigation Strategy (LMS) Workgroup that meets quarterly. 

• Provide updates and information on mitigation topics through meetings and email Maintains and updates the Local
• Mitigation Strategy plan that is approved by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 
• Maintains a list of projects that may become eligible for mitigation or other grant funding
• Coordinates with local communities that participate in the Community Rating System program to save people money on flood insurance
• Coordinates with the State and FEMA after a disaster to get federal funding to help communities rebuild stronger

How can you mitigate?

• Assess your risks to determine what you/your residence may be vulnerable to (e.g flooding, storm surge from hurricanes, high winds, power outages)
• Buy insurance to help protect yourself financially if a disaster hits
• Protect your windows and doors from high winds (e.g. storm shutters, impact windows/doors)
• Have tie down straps installed in your roof
• If you do need to evacuate know where you plan to go, how you will get there and what you need to take.

Resources

• Federal Alliance for Safe Homes offers tips on how to Protect your Home and How to Be Prepared
• For more information or to ask questions, send an email to wcem@waltoncountyem.org