Mitigation Helpline Answers Questions About Protecting Property From Earthquake Damage
Release Date: June 26, 2001
Release Number: 1361-85
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Olympia, WA -- On March 12, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) set up a Mitigation Helpline for people to get advice on how to make their homes and businesses more earthquake proof. The Mitigation Helpline can be reached at 1-800-838-7046. It is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will remain open beyond the June 30 registration deadline to assist those who have questions.
On average, the Helpline is receiving 100 calls a week. They advise people on how to fix chimneys, restore sinking floors and shifted foundations, replace damaged driveways and patios, and repair broken sewer and water lines.
Callers can also learn retrofitting strategies like how to anchor bookcases and file cabinets, bolt sill plates to the foundation, brace propane tanks and gas cylinders and use flexible connections on gas and water lines. The Mitigation Helpline has already assisted more than 1,500 residents and is available to all who have questions about protecting property from earthquake damage.
Anyone who suffered damage in the Nisqually Earthquake needs to call the toll-free registration line before June 30 to register with FEMA: 1-800-462-9029 (TTY: 1-800-462-7585). This number is staffed 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through the deadline on Saturday, June 30.
Last Modified: Monday, 27-Oct-2003 14:29:45