HANDBOOK FOR DISASTER ASSISTANCE
Public Assistance Process
STEP 1 - Applicants Briefing

As soon as possible following a Presidential Declaration if a major disaster or an emergency, the State Coordinating Officer and the State Public Assistance Officer will coordinate an applicant's briefing at the local level. This meeting acquaints prospective applicants with the public assistance process and project administration. Appropriate personnel should attend the applicant's briefing, including those who will:
Know the general location of all the disaster damages;
Have the authority to sign a "Request for Public Assistance (RPA)"; and
Be responsible for recording information presented during the briefing and informing others in their organization.