WASHINGTON  —  The Federal Emergency Management Agency (search) is seeking 2,000 Homeland Security Department workers to spend two weeks carrying out duties in the area devastated by Hurricane Katrina (search).

FEMA director Michael Brown told Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff (search) in a letter that he needs 1,000 people within 48 hours and 2,000 within a week.

Training will be provided in Emmitsburg, Md., Atlanta or Orlando and special skills, such as being bilingual or having a commercial driver's license are important.

The volunteers are being told they must be able to work long hours, outdoors, all day and to bring:

— Sunscreen, sun hat and sunglasses.

— Walking shoes.

— Mosquito repellant.

— Medication, both over the counter and prescription.

— Valid driver's license.

— Government ID.

— Cash (ATMs may not be working).

— Government cell phone, computer, blackberry.

— Appropriate clothing (walking shorts acceptable).

— Rain gear.