LOUISIANA: SPEND FEMA GRANT WISELY

BATON ROUGE, La. – More than 28,000 Louisiana households have been approved for FEMA grants to help them recover from damage caused by Hurricane Laura from Aug. 22-27.

It is important to remember that the funds are to be used only for certain disaster-related expenses. FEMA may audit survivors to confirm they spent grants for basic home repairs, replacing essential household items or paying for somewhere to stay if they cannot return home.

FEMA sends survivors letters that detail approved uses for grants. These may include:

• Repairs to make a home habitable
• Rental assistance to temporarily pay for a place to stay
• Repair or replacement of a disaster-damaged essential vehicle
• Medical care for an injury caused by the disaster
• Replacing clothing, occupational tools and educational materials
• Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster

Rental assistance grants are provided for temporary housing when a disaster leaves your home uninhabitable or inaccessible.

Disaster grants should not be used for travel, entertainment, regular living expenses or any discretionary expenses not related to the disaster. Survivors should keep receipts for three years to show how they spent FEMA grants.

If grant money is not used as outlined in the letter, you may have to repay FEMA and you could lose eligibility for further federal assistance that could become available.

Survivors in Acadia, Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Grant, Jackson, Jefferson Davis, Lincoln, Natchitoches, Ouachita, Rapides, Sabine, Vermilion, Vernon and Winn parishes have until Tuesday, Oct. 27 to apply for federal disaster help.

Register for assistance in one of three ways:

• Online by logging onto DisasterAssistance.gov
• The FEMA app. Visit: fema.gov/mobile-app or your phone’s app store.
• Call 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Toll-free numbers are open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Multilingual operators are available.

Part of the FEMA disaster assistance registration process includes providing a call back phone number for FEMA to contact you to set up a home inspection for damages caused by the disaster and other helpline information.  It is strongly recommended if using a relay service, such as your videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel, you provide your specific number assigned to that service.  It is important that FEMA is able to contact you, and you should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559.

christopher.teed Sat, 09/05/2020 - 14:09

Louisiana: Spend FEMA Grants Wisely

BATON ROUGE, La. – More than 28,000 Louisiana households have been approved for FEMA grants to help them recover from damage caused by Hurricane Laura from Aug. 22-27.

It is important to remember that the funds are to be used only for certain disaster-related expenses. FEMA may audit survivors to confirm they spent grants for basic home repairs, replacing essential household items or paying for somewhere to stay if they cannot return home.

FEMA sends survivors letters that detail approved uses for grants. These may include:

• Repairs to make a home habitable
• Rental assistance to temporarily pay for a place to stay
• Repair or replacement of a disaster-damaged essential vehicle
• Medical care for an injury caused by the disaster
• Replacing clothing, occupational tools and educational materials
• Moving and storage expenses related to the disaster

Rental assistance grants are provided for temporary housing when a disaster leaves your home uninhabitable or inaccessible.

Disaster grants should not be used for travel, entertainment, regular living expenses or any discretionary expenses not related to the disaster. Survivors should keep receipts for three years to show how they spent FEMA grants.

If grant money is not used as outlined in the letter, you may have to repay FEMA and you could lose eligibility for further federal assistance that could become available.

Survivors in Acadia, Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Grant, Jackson, Jefferson Davis, Lincoln, Natchitoches, Ouachita, Rapides, Sabine, Vermilion, Vernon and Winn parishes have until Tuesday, Oct. 27 to apply for federal disaster help.

Register for assistance in one of three ways:

• • Online by logging onto DisasterAssistance.gov
  • The FEMA app. Visit: fema.gov/mobile-app or your phone’s app store.
  • Call 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585. Toll-free numbers are open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Multilingual operators are available.

Part of the FEMA disaster assistance registration process includes providing a call back phone number for FEMA to contact you to set up a home inspection for damages caused by the disaster and other helpline information. It is strongly recommended if using a relay service, such as your videophone, InnoCaption or CapTel, you provide your specific number assigned to that service. It is important that FEMA is able to contact you, and you should be aware phone calls from FEMA may come from an unidentified number.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559.

Carmen.Castro Sat, 09/05/2020 - 14:06

FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for New Jersey

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved New Jersey for a FEMA grant under the Lost Wages Assistance program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow New Jersey to provide $300 per week -- on top of their regular unemployment benefit -- to those unemployed due to COVID-19. FEMA will work with New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to implement a system to make this funding available to New Jersey residents.

On Aug. 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the state of New Jersey agreed to administer a lost wages program for its citizens who are unemployed due to COVID-19.

FEMA looks forward to working with the governors of additional states who agree to administer a lost wages program to bring financial relief to unemployed Americans.

luther.wills-dudich Fri, 09/04/2020 - 18:46

Look Out for Disaster Fraud, Scams

BATON ROUGE, La. — When natural disasters occur, it is common for some people to try to take advantage of survivors by posing as official disaster aid workers trying to help survivors complete their applications.

Scam attempts can be made over the phone, by mail or email, text or in person. Louisiana survivors of Hurricane Laura should be aware of fraud and scams and report any suspicious activity or potential fraud from scam artists, identity thieves and other criminals.

Federal and state workers never ask for or accept money and always carry identification badges. There is no fee required to apply for or to get federal disaster assistance.

During each disaster it’s important to stay tuned to local media and trusted local and federal social media for current updates about ongoing disasters with tips on disaster fraud.

If something makes you feel uncomfortable, check with FEMA or local law enforcement to ensure your identity is protected.

Those who question the validity of a contact or suspect fraud are encouraged to call the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721. Complaints also may be made by contacting local law enforcement.

FEMA also recommends you monitor your credit report for any accounts or changes you do not recognize. If you discover someone is using your information, you will need to take additional steps, including filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission through its website IdentityTheft.gov.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559.

Carmen.Castro Fri, 09/04/2020 - 17:24

Hurricane Laura Prompts Flood Insurance Claims, What to Expect During Process

BATON ROUGE, La. –– Louisiana residents with flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program are beginning to make claims on their flood-damaged properties and should be aware of what to expect during the claims process. 

Statewide, there have been nearly 800 flood insurance claims since Aug. 26 with the highest concentration of claims in Cameron Parish followed by Calcasieu Parish. Policy holders should follow these steps.

You may be able to claim pre-flood measures

• For NFIP policyholders taking pre-flood measures, up to $1,000 in reasonable expenses may be covered to protect your insured property, and up to $1,000 to move your insured property away from a flood or imminent danger of a flood. Keep all receipts and record the time spent performing the work to submit to the insurance adjuster when you file your claim. For more information, view Understanding Flood Loss Avoidance.

Immediately following flood damage

• Contact your insurance agent to report your loss. If you can’t remember the name or number of the insurance company that services your FEMA flood policy, call the NFIP at 877-336-2627 to find out.
• An insurance adjuster will be assigned to you and will contact you within a few days of starting your claim. Ask the adjustor if you are eligible for a remote claim adjustment and an advance payment to help you start recovering.

When it is safe to return to your home or business

• Be aware, you may need a permit for repairing and rebuilding. Contact your local floodplain management and building department. 
• Wear protective gear and take photos and/or videos of the outside and inside of the property.                                                                   
• Keep swatches of carpet, drapes, and upholstery of unrepairable building finishes and contents when removing debris, as the type and quality of material may impact the amount payable on the claim.
• All removed materials need to be photographed before disposal.

• Follow the EPA’s guidelines for safely removing all mold. The NFIP will not cover mold damage if policyholders fail to take action to prevent the growth and spread of mold. For more information, view: www.floodsmart.gov/flood/document-damage.

Remote flood claims adjusting

• Adjusters will make sure policyholders have the necessary technology and equipment (e.g., a digital camera or a cell phone with camera and something that can be used for measurements) and are comfortable using it to take the photographs required for the adjustment.
• The adjuster will also communicate how much time could be required to document the damage (2-4 hours, or more), and the importance of high-quality exterior and interior photos of the damaged and undamaged building and contents.
• Adjusters typically take their own measurements during a physical inspection; however, for remote adjusting, they will rely on the policyholder to take and document measurements using things like rulers, measuring tape, stepping off toe-to-heel, etc.
• There are some instances when a remote adjustment will not be an option, or it may not be the best one for a policyholder’s claim. Some examples include cases where: the policyholder does not have the technology needed; there are large losses with substantial damage; an expert, like an engineer is needed; or other perils are involved, like wind vs water.

Working with your flood adjuster

• The important thing for policyholders to know is if they choose to have their claim remotely adjusted, they can request an in-person inspection at any time during the process. Adjusters are there to support policyholders and address their concerns throughout the claims process.
• Adjusters will show you an official identification card. Don't pay a fee to any third party to file your claim.
• To help ensure you receive a claim payment that re­flects your flood loss and is within your policy limit, ask your insurance company about any important deadlines you need to meet, like submitting your Proof of Loss form. You must submit a completed and signed Proof of Loss with all supporting documentation to your insurance company within 60 days of the loss.
• After the adjuster’s inspection is complete, you will receive a package from the NFIP with your insurance adjuster’s report and a check made out to you and/or your mortgage company.
• Carefully review the report before depositing the check.

Wind vs. water insurance claims

• Hurricane Laura is a wind and water event which brought damage from rising waters, but also wind damage to buildings like roof damage or damage from downed trees.
• The Standard Flood Insurance Policy (SFIP) only pays for direct physical loss by or from flood to insured property.
• Your adjuster will be looking for signs of a general condition of flooding and a flood water line. Damage below this line is typically flood damage. Damage above the flood water line is typically wind damage, such as water-stained ceilings or water damage at broken windows or exterior doors, missing shingles, turbine or fascia damage, water stains to the ceiling or down walls.  
• Your adjuster may ask for a copy of your wind or homeowner’s damage estimate to confirm no overlap in scope or payment of damage. 
• When it is too difficult to tell if the damage was from wind or flood, NFIP insurers may recommend the use of an expert to help determine causation and extent of damage by wind and/or flood.

Flood claim appeals

• FEMA’s goal is to ensure you, as an NFIP policyholder, receive the amount you are owed for your claim(s) under the terms of your policy.
• If you believe your policy provides more coverage than you received payment for, ask your adjustor or insurer to clarify.
• If you receive a denial letter from your insurer for all or part of your claim, you can file a written appeal, including the denial letter and supporting documentation, within 60 days of the date written on the denial letter. Email your appeal to FEMA-NFIP-Appeals@fema.dhs.gov.
• There is no fee to file an appeal and you do not need a third party to represent you.
• To view more information on denials and appeals, visit https://www.floodsmart.gov/index.php/flood/appeal-your-claim-payment.

For more information on the claims process, view the NFIP Flood Insurance Claims Handbook, contact your insurance agent, visit FloodSmart.gov, or call the NFIP at 877-336-2627. Click here for an infographic on how to file a flood insurance claim.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559.

Carmen.Castro Fri, 09/04/2020 - 16:18

Don’t Wait! – FEMA Region IV Urges Residents to Plan Now for Disasters as Part of National Preparedness Month

ATLANTA - Make and practice an emergency plan, build a kit, prepare for disasters and teach youth to be prepared for disasters is the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s call to action for September’s National Preparedness Month.

“Everyone should be prepared for unexpected emergencies – especially families and businesses in the Southeast,” said FEMA Region IV Regional Administrator Gracia Szczech.  “As we enter the peak of hurricane season and continue to respond to COVID-19, we cannot let our guard down. By preparing for the hazards that are most likely to occur where you live and work, you and your family will be more resilient and better able to handle an emergency.”

The theme of the 2020 National Preparedness Month is “Disasters don’t wait. Make your plan today,” and here are four actions you can take now to prepare: 

• Make a Plan: Families and individuals should plan and practice how to stay safe and communicate during a disaster. FEMA’s Ready campaign provides resources that make creating a family communications plan easy. Update your plan using the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance on COVID-19.
• Build a Kit: Your kit should have essential items such as food, water, medications and cash to last several days. Don’t forget face coverings, soap, hand sanitizer and disinfecting wipes. FEMA’s Ready Campaign provides a list of recommended supplies and additional items to consider for the unique needs of your household, including seniors, individuals with disabilities, and pets.
• Check your financial preparedness – Have enough insurance to repair or replace your home and its contents and pay for a place for you to stay if your home is damaged or inaccessible. Standard property insurance does not cover flooding, so purchase a separate policy through your insurance company, agent or the National Flood Insurance Program, whether you are a renter or an owner. A plan to pay your bills and access to your important records and accounts will help you get back on your feet faster and avoid problems with your credit when you need it most. FEMA has resources to help you prepare financially for the unexpected, so you can take care of your immediate needs after a disaster.
• Prepare Youth for Disasters: Make disaster preparedness exciting for children by creating a Ready kit scavenger hunt using the checklist provided in the Ready Kids section or download the Ready 2 Help card game, which teaches children five simple steps to take in an emergency.

The purpose of National Preparedness Month, managed and sponsored by the Ready campaign, is to raise awareness and encourage Americans to take steps to prepare for emergencies in their homes, schools, organizations, businesses, and places of worship.

National Preparedness Month is the perfect opportunity to share emergency preparedness information and host activities across the country to help Americans understand what it truly means to be ready.

neily.chapman Fri, 09/04/2020 - 11:17

Federal Earthquake Assistance Update September 8 is the Final Day to Register

SALT LAKE CITY – Tuesday, September 8 is the deadline for Utah residents to register for federal disaster assistance for damage caused by the Magna Earthquake and aftershocks between March 18 and April 17.

Utahns impacted by the disaster who haven’t registered can still apply for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (FEMA) or (TTY) 800-462-7585. Help is available in most languages.

If you require a reasonable accommodation or an alternative format of available information such as American Sign Language format, or audio format, please submit your request to: Region8AccommodationRequest@fema.dhs.gov.

Since the July 8 disaster declaration, more than 670 Utahns have registered with FEMA for earthquake assistance. More than $1.3 million in federal disaster assistance has been provided to eligible applicants in Salt Lake and Davis counties, including more than $480,000 in FEMA grant funding. 

In addition, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) approved disaster loans totaling more than $840,000 for businesses and residents. These low-interest loans may be used to repair or replace damaged and destroyed businesses and homes, personal property items and automobiles. Additional SBA applications are in the review process.

Contact a mitigation specialist at FEMA-r8-HMhelp@fema.dhs.gov or bereadyutah@utah.gov for more information about making your home and family safer before, during and after an earthquake.

For more information on Utah’s recovery from the Magna Quake, visit, www.fema.gov/disaster/4548, or https://earthquakes.utah.gov/magna-quake/. 

Brian.Hvinden Thu, 09/03/2020 - 18:15

Public Invited to Appeal or Comment on Flood Maps in Essex County, Virginia

PHILADELPHIA- FEMA is proposing updates to the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Essex County, Virginia. Community stakeholders are invited to participate in a 90-day appeal and comment period.

The updated maps were produced in coordination with local, state and FEMA officials. Significant community review of the maps has already taken place, but before the maps become final, community stakeholders can identify any concerns or questions about the information provided and submit appeals or comments.

The 90-day appeal period will begin on or around September 2, 2020. Residents and business owners are also encouraged to review the updated maps to learn about local flood risks and potential future flood insurance requirements.

Residents may submit an appeal if they perceive that modeling or data used to create the map is technically or scientifically incorrect.

• An appeal must include technical information, such as hydraulic or hydrologic data, to support the claim.
• Appeals cannot be based on the effects of proposed projects or projects started after the study is in progress.
• If property owners see incorrect information that does not change the flood hazard information—such as a missing or misspelled road name in the Special Flood Hazard Area or an incorrect corporate boundary—they can submit a written comment.

The next step in the mapping process is the resolution of all comments and appeals. Once they are resolved, FEMA will notify communities of the effective date of the final maps.

Submit appeals and comments by contacting your local floodplain administrator: Alwyn W. “Wyn” Davis Jr., Building Official, Essex County, (804) 443-4951, awdavis@essex-virginia.org. The preliminary maps may be viewed online at the FEMA Flood Map Changes Viewer: http://msc.fema.gov/fmcv. Changes from the current maps may be viewed online at the Region 3 Changes Since Last FIRM Viewer: http://arcg.is/0rLfCH.

For more information about the flood maps:

• Use a live chat service about flood maps at http://go.usa.gov/r6C  (just click on the “Live Chat” icon)
• Contact a FEMA Map Specialist by telephone; toll free, at 1-877-FEMA-MAP (1-877-336-2627) or by email at FEMAMapSpecialist@riskmapcds.com.

Most homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood. There are cost saving options available for those newly mapped into a high-risk flood zone. Learn more about your flood insurance options by talking with your insurance agent and visiting https://www.floodsmart.gov.

If you have any questions, please contact FEMA Region 3 Office of External Affairs at (215) 931-5597 or at femar3newsdesk@fema.dhs.gov.

Flood Mapping Milestones

January 15, 2019 — Flood Risk Review Meeting to review draft flood hazard data

September 15, 2019 — Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map released

November 7, 2019 — Community Coordination and Outreach Meeting to review Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map, and discuss updates to local floodplain management ordinance and flood insurance

On or Around September 2, 2020 –Appeal Period starts

November 2021* — New Flood Insurance Rate Map becomes effective and flood insurance requirements take effect

*Timeline subject to change pending completion of the appeal review process

Follow Us

FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. FEMA Region 3’s jurisdiction includes Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. Stay informed of FEMA’s activities online: videos and podcasts are available at fema.gov/medialibrary and youtube.com/fema. Follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/femaregion3.

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amanda.hancher Thu, 09/03/2020 - 15:57

Lake Charles Document Drop Off Center Opens with Safety Protocols

BATON ROUGE, La. — A drive thru FEMA Documentation Drop-off Center will open in Lake Charles on Friday, Sept. 4.  Hurricane Laura survivors will be able to have their documents scanned into their case file and returned to them. Only document scanning will be offered.

The center will operate under strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure the safety of all participants.

Masks or face coverings are required for entry and service. You will remain in your car. A specialist wearing a face mask will receive your documents through the window and return them to you.

The center is located at:

Calcasieu Parish School Board

3310 Broad St.

Lake Charles, LA 70615

No appointments are necessary. The hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. seven days a week.

Survivors do not need to visit a recovery center to apply or update their application. To ask individual questions or submit information:

• Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585.
• Visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download FEMA’s mobile app. For more information go to: www.fema.gov/mobile-app.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559.

Carmen.Castro Thu, 09/03/2020 - 15:28

FEMA Outreach Workers Providing Disaster Assistance Materials at Hotels

BATON ROUGE, La.— FEMA is providing disaster assistance registration materials at more than 40 hotels currently serving as emergency shelters in areas of Louisiana damaged by Hurricane Laura.

Resources in several languages are being delivered by FEMA’s Disaster Survivor Assistance teams. They provide information to survivors on several easy ways they can register for disaster assistance right from the hotel by:

• Going online to DisasterAssistance.gov
• Using the FEMA app
• Calling 800-621-3362 (FEMA) or TTY 800-462-7585 for the speech- and hearing- impaired. Those who use 711-Relay or Video Relay Services may call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. CDT, seven days a week.

The DSA hotel outreach effort is a health and safety response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In past disaster responses, DSA has offered door-to-door outreach and registration help to impacted residents and businesses.

Assistance for homeowners and renters can include grants for rent, temporary housing and home repairs to their primary residence, as well as for other serious disaster-related needs such as medical and dental expenses or funeral and burial costs.

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration also may be available to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. For more information, applicants may contact SBA’s Disaster Assistance Customer Service Center by calling 800-659-2955, emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov, or visiting SBA’s website at SBA.gov/disaster. Those who use TTY may call 800-877-8339.

As of Sept. 2, federal disaster assistance is authorized for residents in Acadia, Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Grant, Jackson, Jefferson Davis, Lincoln, Natchitoches, Ouachita, Rapides, Sabine, Vermilion, Vernon and Winn parishes. Additional parishes may be designated for assistance in the coming weeks.

For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559.

 

Carmen.Castro Thu, 09/03/2020 - 15:21

FEMA Provides Additional $5.71 Million for Montana COVID-19 Response

DENVER –FEMA announced $5.71 million in additional funding for COVID-19 response efforts in Montana. The assistance was made available under the major disaster declaration issued March 31 by President Trump.

The funding is being provided to the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services for purchases of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for medical care providers and other supplies, which were distributed statewide through June 13, 2020.

“Making sure medical responders are properly equipped is vital in the battle against COVID-19 and these funds are assisting Montana facilities.” said FEMA Region 8 Administrator Lee dePalo.

FEMA’s Public Assistance Program provides funding for emergency actions undertaken by communities to protect public safety, providing at least a 75 percent funding share for eligible costs. Remaining costs are the responsibility of the state and local applicants for assistance.

To date, FEMA has provided more than $5.82 million in Public Assistance funding for the COVID-19 response in Montana. These reimbursements can play a critical role as state, local and tribal officials work tirelessly to assist their communities during this response. Additional support has come in the form of mission assignments, where FEMA directs another federal agency to perform work to address needs identified by the state.

Brian.Hvinden Thu, 09/03/2020 - 14:41

FEMA Awards City of Lakeland More Than $3.2 Million for Hurricane Irma Repairs

ORLANDO, Fla. – FEMA has approved a grant of $3,208,752 for the State of Florida to help the City of Lakeland defray the costs of repairs to the city’s electric power system after Hurricane Irma.

FEMA Public Assistance funds will reimburse the city’s utility department, Lakeland Electric, for costs incurred in permanently restoring electric service after the September 2017 storm. These include costs of labor, equipment, materials and contracts for Lakeland Electric and mutual aid through the Florida Municipal Electric Association.

The Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including some houses of worship, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.

The federal share for Public Assistance projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the nonfederal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with the subrecipients like local and county governments.

mayshaunt.gary Thu, 09/03/2020 - 14:19

FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Montana's Snider/Rice Complex Fire

DENVER – This morning, FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Snider/Rice Fire burning in Rosebud, Custer, and Powder River Counties, Montana.

FEMA Regional Administrator Lee dePalo approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request and determining that the fire threatened such destruction as would constitute a major disaster.

At the time of the request, the Snider/Rice Fire was threatening 1,052 homes and structures in and around Ashland, Montana. Mandatory evacuations are taking place for approximately 3,156 people. The fire is also threatening 10+ buildings, infrastructure, utilities, and equipment in the area. The fire started on September 2, 2020, and has burned in excess of 48,000 acres of state and private land.

The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.

Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies.

With the FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.

For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.

Brian.Hvinden Thu, 09/03/2020 - 12:14

Storm Survivors May Be Eligible for Lodging Reimbursement

DES MOINES, Iowa – Iowans who have registered with FEMA may be eligible for reimbursement if they paid out-of-pocket expenses for temporary lodging because their primary residences had sustained damage from the August 10 storm.

Temporary lodging includes hotels, motels, or other short-term lodging while an applicant is displaced from his or her primary residence.

Lodging expenses may be eligible for reimbursement if an applicant:

• Registers with FEMA.
• Passes identity verification.
• Verifies occupancy in a primary residence within a designated county.
• Verifies that the primary residence is uninhabitable or inaccessible.
• Incurs disaster-related temporary lodging expenses.
• Does not have insurance that would cover lodging.
• Did not receive lodging assistance during the same timeframe.

Reimbursement funds are available for eligible applicants under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program. Survivors who are approved for lodging reimbursement must submit hotel/motel receipts that show a zero balance to FEMA to receive payment. Reimbursement will not cover incidental costs such as phone calls, laundry, internet, food, movies or pet care.

The 11 counties designated for FEMA Individual Assistance are: Benton, Boone, Cedar, Jasper, Linn, Marshall, Polk, Poweshiek, Scott, Story and Tama.

Applicants may register in the following ways:

• Go online to DisasterAssistance.gov.
• Download the FEMA Mobile App for smartphones.
• Call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585) between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Central Time, seven days a week. Multilingual operators are available.

thomas.wise Thu, 09/03/2020 - 11:58

Registration Deadline Extended for FEMA, SBA Disaster Assistance

MIDLAND, Mich. –– The deadline for survivors of the May 16-22 severe storms and flooding to register with FEMA for individual disaster assistance and apply for a low-interest disaster loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has been extended to Wednesday, Sept. 30.

The extension agreed upon by the state and FEMA is for survivors living in the disaster-designated individual assistance counties of Arenac, Gladwin, Iosco, Midland and Saginaw.

Federal disaster assistance for individuals and families can include money for rental assistance, essential home repairs, personal property losses and other serious disaster-related needs not covered by insurance. Residents who lost access to water through their private well—if the well was physically damaged, collapsed and/or is no longer producing potable water as a direct result of the disaster—could also be considered for financial assistance under FEMA’s Individuals and Households Program.

Individuals can register with FEMA online at DisasterAssistance.gov or through the FEMA App. By phone, call 800-621-3362 (TTY: 800-462-7585). The toll-free numbers are open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET seven days a week.

SBA helps businesses, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters fund repairs or rebuilding efforts and cover the cost of replacing lost or disaster-damaged personal property.

SBA also has extended its deadline to apply for a low-interest disaster loan to Sept. 30. To apply for a low-interest disaster loan, complete an online application at disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/. To reach an SBA Customer Service Representative directly call 800-659-2955. Email questions to FOCE-Help@sba.gov.  For more information, visit sba.gov/.

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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency, or economic status. Reasonable accommodations, including translation and American Sign Language interpreters via Video Relay Service will be available to ensure effective communication with applicants with limited English proficiency, disabilities, and access and functional needs.

If you or someone you know has been discriminated against, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362 (including 711 or Video Relay). If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech disability and use a TTY, call 800-462-7585.

English: www.fema.gov/disaster/4547

Spanish: https://www.fema.gov/es/disaster/4547 

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troy.christensen Thu, 09/03/2020 - 10:52

FEMA AUTHORIZES FUNDS TO FIGHT MONTANA’S BOBCAT FIRE

DENVER – This evening, FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Bobcat Fire burning in Musselshell and Yellowstone Counties, Montana.

FEMA Regional Administrator Lee dePalo approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request and determining that the fire threatened such destruction as would constitute a major disaster.

At the time of the request, the Bobcat Fire was threatening 500 – 700 residences and businesses along with the Bull Mountain Coal Mine. The fire was also threatening infrastructure, utility transmission lines, cell phone towers, coal loading facilities and major roadways and bridges in and out of the area.  Voluntary evacuations are taking place for approximately 2,100 people. The fire started today and has burned in excess of 20,000 acres of state, federal and private land.

The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.

Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies.

With the FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.

For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.

Brian.Hvinden Thu, 09/03/2020 - 00:36

FEMA AUTHORIZES FUNDS TO FIGHT MONTANA’S HUFF FIRE

DENVER – This evening, FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Huff Fire burning in Garfield County, Montana.

FEMA Regional Administrator Lee dePalo approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request and determining that the fire threatened such destruction as would constitute a major disaster.

At the time of the request, the Huff Fire was threatening more than 926 structures which included the following facilities: seven emergency services, 28 commercial, two health and medical, and one government building. A school and hospital were evacuated. Voluntary evacuations were taking place for approximately 500 people. Infrastructure, utilities, and major roadways were also being threatened.  The fire started today and has burned in excess of 30,000 acres of state and federal land.

The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.

Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies.

With the FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.

For more information on FMAGs, visit  https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 09/02/2020 - 22:38

FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for Delaware

WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved Delaware for a FEMA grant under the Lost Wages Assistance program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Delaware to provide $300 per week -- on top of their regular unemployment benefit -- to those unemployed due to COVID-19. FEMA will work with Delaware Governor John Carney to implement a system to make this funding available to Delaware residents.

On Aug. 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the state of Delaware agreed to administer a lost wages program for its citizens who are unemployed due to COVID-19.

FEMA looks forward to working with the governors of additional states who agree to administer a lost wages program to bring financial relief to unemployed Americans.

zella.campbell Wed, 09/02/2020 - 20:19

Do Your Own Earthquake Home Hazard Hunt

SALT LAKE CITY – Utah residents can  do several things to reduce potential earthquake hazards and damage in their homes.

Steps you can take on your own include:

• Strapping down televisions, computers and other expensive or hazardous electronics.
• Securely fastening or moving heavy pictures and mirrors currently located over beds or other furniture.
• Bracing water heaters and making sure that gas models have flexible connections.
• Knowing how and when to shut off utilities.

Some modifications may require a licensed contractor, designer or architect to complete. Among these are:

• Bracing or replacing masonry (brick) chimneys.
• Strengthening garages that have living space above them.
• Upgrading unbraced crawlspace walls and other foundation features.

For a full list of earthquake damage prevention measures and retrofits ─ including a cut-away diagram of where these potential hazards can be found in your home ─ download the FEMA brochure Earthquake Home Hazard Hunt at https://go.usa.gov/xGgUr or download the Utah DEM brochure Putting Down Roots in Earthquake County at https://www.utah.gov/beready/documents/roots_earthquake_low.pdf.

Meanwhile, you can browse a list of Utah-based licensed contractors, engineers and architects at https://secure.utah.gov/datarequest/professionals/index.html or check their licenses at https://secure.utah.gov/llv/search/index.html.

Utah residents impacted by the March 18 quake and aftershocks who have not registered with FEMA can still apply for assistance at www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 (FEMA) or (TTY) 800-462-7585. Help is available in most languages.

If you require a reasonable accommodation or an alternative format of available information such as American Sign Language format, or audio format, please submit your request to: Region8AccommodationRequest@fema.dhs.gov.

Contact a FEMA Mitigation Specialist at FEMA-r8-HMhelp@fema.dhs.gov or a DEM Mitigation Specialist at bereadyutah@utah.gov for more information about making your home and family safer before, during and after an earthquake.

For more information on Utah’s recovery from the Magna Quake, visit, www.fema.gov/disaster/4548, or https://earthquakes.utah.gov/magna-quake/. 

Brian.Hvinden Wed, 09/02/2020 - 17:00

Seven Additional Louisiana Parishes Designated For Individual Assistance

BATON ROUGE, La. – Homeowners and renters in Grant, Jackson, Lincoln, Natchitoches, Rapides, Sabine, and Winn parishes may now apply for federal disaster assistance for uninsured and underinsured damage and losses resulting from Hurricane Laura.

To be eligible for federal disaster aid, storm damage and losses from the hurricane and flooding must have occurred as a result of Hurricane Laura from Aug. 22 to Aug. 27, 2020.

Nine parishes were previously included in the federal declaration to help homeowners and renters. They are Acadia, Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis, Ouachita, Vermilion and Vernon.

Survivors should file a claim at the same time as they apply to FEMA. Save yourself time, if you have insurance, you must file a claim.

If you have phone or Internet access, you may register by:

• Going online at DisasterAssistance.gov
• Downloading the FEMA app
• Calling 800-621-3362 (FEMA) or TTY 800-462-7585. If you use 711-Relay or Video Relay Services, call 800-621-3362. The toll-free telephone lines operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week.

Do not wait to begin your cleanup and repairs. Take photos of all damage and save all receipts.

Remember, FEMA assistance alone cannot make survivors whole. FEMA’s disaster assistance programs are designed to help with grants for basic repairs to make survivors’ homes safe, sanitary and secure and to provide a temporary place to live while survivors develop their recovery plans.

Long-term, low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration also may be available to cover losses not fully compensated by insurance and do not duplicate benefits of other agencies or organizations.

FEMA is unable to duplicate insurance payments. However, disaster survivors without insurance or who are underinsured may still receive help after insurance claims have been settled.

For more information on recovery efforts for Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559.

Carmen.Castro Wed, 09/02/2020 - 16:59