FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Friday, May 25, 2007

CONTACT:    FEMA News Desk: 703-254-6197

                       Mitch Krebs, (605) 773-3212

                       State News Desk, (605) 773-4658

                       

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- Inspectors from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) have begun damage assessments for homeowners and renters Friday, May 25. Inspections are an important step in the recovery process, and will help speed disaster assistance to those affected by the severe storms and flooding on May 4-5.

 

"We are working quickly to meet the needs of residents who have lost so much," said Federal Coordinating Officer Justin Dombrowski. "When an inspector calls, the registrant can speed the assistance process by setting up an appointment as soon as possible."

 

After residents register with FEMA, inspectors visit homes by appointment only. When the inspector calls, registrants should provide clear, accurate directions to the damaged property and a current telephone number where they can be reached. A street address is needed. Do not use a post office box address.

 

"All FEMA inspectors carry proper identification and you should ask to see it," said Kristi Turman, director of the South Dakota Office of Emergency Management. "If you have already begun cleanup or repairs to your home, show the inspector what you have done, and, if you have it, provide documentation of the work, such as photos, contractor estimates and receipts."

 

The FEMA inspection is free. It generally takes 30-40 minutes, and consists of inspecting all areas of the home and personal property. The inspector enters damage information into a hand-held computer and sends that data to FEMA. The inspector does not determine whether a registrant is eligible for assistance.

 

Homeowners, renters and business owners who had flood losses, and haven't registered yet, should call the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) registration line at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) to apply for disaster aid. To get assistance, you must register. Individuals with hearing or speech impairments should call (TTY) 1-800-462-7585. The lines are open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily. You can also register online at www.fema.gov.

 

For state assistance, go to the nearest Disaster Recovery Center, or call the State Recovery Assistance Help Line at 1-866-737-8998. The state Help Line is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. More information is also available at www.disasterrecovery.sd.gov.

 

FEMA's Individual Assistance program provides grants for temporary housing, transportation expenses, moving and storage expenses, funeral, medical and dental expenses. In addition, individuals who complete an SBA loan application -- even if they do not own a small business - may be eligible for assistance that covers structural damage, personal property, vehicle repair or replacement. To find out whether you qualify, you must register.

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