Tax filing after disaster losses

FEMA Private Sector Tip of the Week for 12/28/2009:

Businesses damaged or destroyed by disasters can prepare their tax documents using the IRS Disaster Losses Tool kit. Download the toolkit today: www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p2194b.pdf.

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This service is provided to you at no charge by FEMA.

FEMA · U.S. Department of Homeland Security · Washington, DC 20472 · 1 (800) 621-FEMA (3362)

Call Uncle Paulie in Raleigh

Each year, as the ball drops during New Year's Eve, millions of festive calls and texts overwhelm New York City's phone circuits, making communicating within the five boroughs difficult. Long distance calls, however, remain open and effective even when local circuits are busy. OEM encourages New Yorkers to select a long distance, or out-of-state, contact to serve as an emergency communication point when calling within the city is not possible. If a local emergency or event ties up New York City phone circuits, an out-of-state contact can help you relay important messages to family members within the city. Learn more about disaster planning Read the Tip of the Week online

Support Volunteer Efforts

FEMA Private Sector Tip of the Week for 12/21/2009:

Support employee volunteer efforts and encourage them to give back to their communities. Visit www.serve.gov to volunteer today.

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This service is provided to you at no charge by FEMA.

FEMA · U.S. Department of Homeland Security · Washington, DC 20472 · 1 (800) 621-FEMA (3362)

Donate to Disaster Relief

'Tis the season for giving and OEM encourages New Yorkers to consider disaster relief as a worthy cause. Though the city and country have been spared from major disasters recently, organizations like Aidmatrix and Network for Good constantly gather resources so they are ready to help when the need arises. Remember, many donations made before the end of the year can be deducted on your 2009 tax return. Learn how to get involved with disaster preparedness and relief See OEM's Tip of the Week on the website

Don't Bake Your Home for the Holidays

While you're wrapping up your holiday baking this week, remember to turn the oven off once the cookies are done. As cozy as it may be after baking on a cold afternoon, OEM reminds you never to use your oven to warm up your home. Doing so could lead to fire or dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Read more about safe home heating Learn how to heat your home safely from the NYC Fire Department Visit OEM online

Give the Gift of Preparedness

FEMA Private Sector Tip of the Week for 12/14/2009:

Give the Gift of Preparedness: a weather radio, CPR lessons or emergency kits for your family, pets and car. For more preparedness gift giving ides, visit: http://www.ready.gov/business/plan/emersupply.html.

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This service is provided to you at no charge by FEMA.

FEMA · U.S. Department of Homeland Security · Washington, DC 20472 · 1 (800) 621-FEMA (3362)

Business Insurance Coverages

FEMA Private Sector Tip of the Week for 12/07/2009:

Ensure that your business insurance covers all hazards including floods, wind, fire and other emergencies. www.fema.gov/rebuild/insurance.shtm

You are subscribed to email updates from the FEMA Private Sector Division/Office of External Affairs. Contact the Private Sector Division at: FEMA-Private-Sector@dhs.gov or visit www.fema.gov/privatesector.

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This service is provided to you at no charge by FEMA.

FEMA · U.S. Department of Homeland Security · Washington, DC 20472 · 1 (800) 621-FEMA (3362)

Get a Handle on Candles

Candles are a popular decoration during the holiday season, but if not used properly they can lead to fires. This week, OEM reminds New Yorkers to light candles safely by following a few simple steps: Have a working smoke detector on every level of the home. Place candle holders on flat surfaces away from curtains, drapes, bedding, and other things that catch fire easily. Never leave the house while candles are burning. Read the Fire Department's Holiday Safety Tips Visit OEM online