Close To 1,500 Register For Disaster Assistance In Two Days
Release Date: September 23, 2004
Release Number: 1558-007
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CHARLESTON, W. Va. -- Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and West Virginia Office of Emergency Services officials announced close to 1,500 survivors of Hurricane Ivan registered for assistance in the two days following the storms and flooding that began on September 16.
On September 20 President Bush approved a request from Governor Bob Wise for a federal disaster declaration for the counties of Brooke, Hancock, Marshall, Ohio, Pleasants, Tyler, Wetzel and Wirt.
Residents and business owners from the designated counties can register by calling FEMA's toll-free registration line at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Hearing- or speech-impaired individuals may call the TTY registration number at 1-800-462-7585. Calls are taken seven days a week, 24 hours a day.
As a result of the widespread damage from Hurricane Ivan, more than twice as many calls have been received this month than in any previous month in the history of the agency. Although call centers have been added, the volume remains high. FEMA is asking the public to support the agency's efforts to prioritize help to those with the greatest need. Owners of commercial properties and residents with only minor losses are urged to wait a few days before calling so those whose homes were destroyed or heavily damaged can be served first.
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: Thursday, 23-Sep-2004 14:56:05