Help Available To Restore Storm-Damaged Wells And Septic Tanks
Release Date: October 6, 2003
Release Number: 1490-33
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Raleigh, NC-Residents of North Carolina's 36 disaster-designated counties whose wells or septic tanks were damaged are eligible to seek federal financial assistance to restore them to use, officials said today.
Assistance may be available to pump out septic tanks, repair or even replace them if the damage is permanent. Homeowners with private wells that were rendered useless may be eligible for assistance if the well is their sole source of water. Moreover, renters forced to vacate homes because of unusable wells or septic tanks can seek assistance to get temporary housing.
A wide range of state and federal help is available by calling the toll-free registration line, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), between 8 a.m. and midnight. seven days a week. Persons with speech or hearing impairments should apply by calling the TTY line, 1-800-462-7585.
Officials cautioned that water pumped from wells that have been flooded should be disinfected before being used for drinking, food preparation and other domestic needs. For instructions on how to disinfect wells and/or arrange for sampling, residents should contact the local health department.
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 Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Monday, 06-Oct-2003 14:26:55