In this special episode focusing on the January 2024 Los Angeles fires, I talk with Mark Neveau, a former fire chief and FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer (FCO) under the Obama administration. Drawing from his extensive experience in emergency management, Mark provides essential guidance for those affected by the Palisades and Eaton fires, while offering valuable insights for anyone living in disaster-prone areas.

Key Points

FEMA provides immediate assistance and coordinates with state/local agencies
Insurance considerations, including California Fair Plan details
Debris removal and rebuilding timeline expectations
Mental health resources and community support importance
Common scams to watch for during recovery
The role of public adjusters in insurance claims
Long-term recovery planning considerations

Resources FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers:

West Side: UCLA Research Park West, 10850 West Pico Boulevard, LA 90064
Pasadena: PCC Community Education Center, 3035 East Foothill Boulevard, 91107
Altadena: 540 West Woodbury Road, 91001

Important Tips:

Register with FEMA immediately after disaster
Document everything possible
Avoid rushing major decisions
Consider working with a public adjuster
Stay connected with community support groups
Verify all official communications
Be realistic about rebuilding timelines (potentially several years)
Participate in community recovery efforts
Seek mental health support when needed

About Our Guest

Mark Neveau served as a fire chief and FEMA Federal Coordinating Officer, managing emergency responses across California. His experience includes working on the 2008 LA fires and numerous other major disasters. For more information, visit markneveau.org.