----- Original Message -----
From: <[log in to unmask]>
To: <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Tuesday, October 28, 2003 6:16 PM
Subject: THE Most Accessable Website


> FEMA's Web Site "Disabled Friendly"
>
> FEMA's Web site-www.fema.gov <http://www.fema.gov>-was recently
highlighted
> as one of the most disabled-accessible government Internet sites by
several
> organizations that work with the disabled, including Lighthouse
> International. Web designers and managers at FEMA have worked hard to make
> the site accessible, going far beyond the minimum requirements of Section
508.
>
> For example:
>
> · When the FEMA Web site was redesigned, Section 508 compliance
requirements
> played a large role in the layout and design development.
>
> · FEMA strictly follows its policy of accessibility of Web information.
Other
> sites often make exceptions, with an expectation that the noncompliant
> material will be replaced at a later time. FEMA does not allow anything to
be
> posted unless it is compliant--no exceptions. Agency policy is to always
post
> a text version to ensure accessibility.
>
> · The FEMA Web team has developed templates that have been thoroughly
tested
> for compliance. Since most pages use one of the pre-approved templates, it
> makes the job of posting compliant material much easier.
>
> · All new templates are tested with two software checkers and then, if
there
> are conflicting reports, the material is manually tested with a screen
reader.
>
> FEMA also solicits help from individuals who use assistive software to
ensure
> material is accessible.
>
> FEMA's Web site has information to help the nation prepare for and reduce
> risk from disasters -- both natural and manmade. It has disaster-specific
> information and information for businesses, first responders, community
> officials, and educators. There is also information for those eligible for
> disaster assistance. The US Fire Administration (USFA) site, part of the
FEMA
> Web site, includes the ability to order publications online and to enroll
in a
> list-serve to receive regular USFA updates.