Become the Hero of your Local Community through FEMA's Project Impact

Project Impact Goal: To develop a model for all markets around the country to follow to protect their communities from weather and non-weather related disasters. We will focus on the work done to spread this model throughout the nation.

NBC4’s role is to conduct a pilot program to explore ways in which broadcasters may “put their shoulder to the wheel” in helping communities prevent the personal and economic costs of disasters. Essentially, the station will focus on educating viewers about how to protect themselves, their homes, their businesses and communities by taking action before severe weather strikes. The education vehicles, among other activities, will include an on-air public awareness campaign and a series of community meetings. The best of the methods and messages then will be available to other broadcasters who may want to join Project Impact.

“NBC4 is the Washington television station known for its “Working 4 You” community outreach projects that bring tangible value to viewers’ lives, “ said Linda Sullivan, President and General Manager. “We anticipate that the NBC4 Project Impact Partnership not only will help viewers understand the concept of disaster resistant communities, but also will spur individuals, businesses and organizations to cooperate in making long term, protective changes in preparing for disasters.” She added, “This will be an invaluable addition to our region.”

Dave Jones, NBC4 Meteorologist invited by Vice President, Al Gore to participate in the 1998 Hurricane Damage-Prevention Roundtable in Deerfield Beach, FL is responsible for the partnership. He said, "This is very exciting. Together with FEMA and local businesses, NBC4 will be instrumental in increasing public awareness about how our communities can reduce the damaging effects of disasters in and around the Washington, D.C. area.” Jones added, “This is a proactive, common-sense approach to disaster preparedness. Also, NBC4 is privileged to have the opportunity to set the standard other broadcast operations may want to follow throughout the nation to make their communities more disaster resistant. Our number one goal is to save lives and property."

Television is the most effective method of mass communication. Getting information about weather conditions is one of the major reasons people tune in. With Project Impact, NBC4’s team of meteorologists will create innovative ways to be sure communities around the region have access to the information needed to prepare for disasters long before they happen.