Register For Disaster Assistance
Release Date: July 6, 2004
Release Number: 1518-043
» More Information on Iowa Severe Storms, Tornadoes, and Flooding
DES MOINES, Iowa -- Iowans who experienced losses due to severe storms, tornadoes and flooding between May 19 and June 24 may register for assistance with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency.
The first step is to call FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) (or TTY 1-800-462-7585) between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., CDT, Monday through Saturday. The registration deadline is July 26.
The phone conversation takes about 20 minutes. Callers will be asked for general information about their income, insurance coverage and how badly their residence or business was damaged. They should be prepared to give details about their housing needs, the location of the damaged property and a phone number where they can be reached. Callers should have the following information available:
- Applicant’s full legal name
- Applicant’s Social Security number
- Current telephone number(s)
- Current and pre-disaster addresses
- Insurance coverage, policy number(s) and agent’s name
- Proof of residency
- Concise statement of the type, location, and extent of damage
They must also inform their insurance carrier of their losses and follow their procedures for filing a claim. Even if Iowans who suffered losses have insurance, they may also register with FEMA because disaster assistance may be available to help uninsured or underinsured losses or expenses.
The Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division was known as the Iowa Emergency Management Division until July 2003. The current name reflects the dual nature of the Division to provide programs and resources for both homeland security and emergency management efforts.
On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA’s continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 06-Jul-2004 16:09:36