True or False: Personnel from external organizations responding to a storm area are paid the higher of either their home pay rates or local established rates.

The statement is true. When external personnel respond to storm areas, it is common practice for these responders to be compensated at the higher of their home pay rates or the local established rates. This policy serves to ensure fairness and incentivizes skilled workers to assist in recovery efforts, as they may be leaving their home jobs and incurring additional expenses while working in a potentially hazardous environment. Compensation at the higher rate also recognizes the expertise and value that these individuals bring to emergency response scenarios, promoting a swift and effective recovery process.

In scenarios where personnel might be contracted specifically for a job, different pay arrangements could apply, but the general guideline remains focused on ensuring that responders receive adequate financial support regardless of their original employment circumstances. This approach is vital in emergency management and recovery, especially following significant storm events.