Evacuees Can Find Answers On Fema Website And Helpline
Release Date: October 11, 2005
Release Number: 3215-013
» More Information on Arkansas Hurricane Katrina
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. -- After evacuees register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency FEMA), they often have questions about their application, their eligibility, or the kinds of assistance available.
Evacuees can find answers 24 hours a day, 7 days a week online at www.fema.gov or by calling the helpline at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362). Multilingual operators are available to assist applicants in a variety of languages. Individuals using special keyboard equipment can call (TTY) 1-800-462-7585.
The FEMA website provides a wealth of disaster information. Applicants can create an online account and review the status of their application. The website includes answers to the 100 frequently asked questions specific to hurricanes Katrina and Rita. While online, applicants can:
- learn about the disaster assistance process
- get information on eligibility requirements
- access temporary housing information
- find answers to insurance questions
- get help with employment issues
- learn about the inspection process
- understand their rights
- displaced college students can learn about their options to register in a different school
The FEMA website also includes rebuilding resources and suggests ways people can reduce their losses in the future. There are detailed instructions for removing mold and mildew from your home and repairing a flooded home. Homeowners can find information on the National Flood Insurance Program and guidance on building a safer home.
FEMA.gov also has a direct link to the U.S. Postal Service website where evacuees can register a change of address.
FEMA prepares the nation for all hazards and manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, trains first responders, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 07-Feb-2006 09:39:56