To be better prepared for this year's hurricane season, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has created a live video network to assist officials with site assessment when disasters occur.

In addition, relief trucks will be equipped with GPS devices so FEMA can monitor the delivery of supplies during emergencies. The agency also has stockpiled equipment for floods and started a partnership with the Coast Guard to use its boats when responding to some emergencies.

The digital video system will be operated from a FEMA mobile command unit, officials said. The cameras can be handheld or mounted on trucks and helicopters, and the images will be transmitted to the nation's capital via satellite.

FEMA also will attempt to reduce response time associated with hurricane events by sending relief supplies before a storm hits to cities close to the expected damage area. The supplies will include electrical generators and be accompanied by search-and-rescue and medical teams.