Disaster Registration Process Is Confidential
Release Date: March 9, 2006
Release Number: 1628-039
» More Information on California Severe Storms, Flooding, Mudslides, and Landslides
SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- The registration information that Californians provide when they apply for disaster aid is confidential – it is used only to establish eligibility and prevent duplication of disaster recovery assistance.
When victims of this winter’s California flooding call the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to register, the interview helps determine what disaster assistance programs they may be considered for. The Privacy Act of 1974 restricts FEMA from sharing the information unless the applicant signs a release allowing it.
“We have one mission and one goal in mind when a family or an individual comes to us for help after a disaster,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Tom Davies of FEMA. “That is to make sure they receive what they are eligible for. Their privacy is protected.”
A phone call to FEMA's toll-free registration number, 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or (TTY) 1- 800-462-7585, begins the applicant's review for a number of programs, and prompts referrals to other government and voluntary agencies that may offer specific disaster services. People can also register online at www.fema.gov.
“Californians can be sure that their registration with FEMA for disaster assistance is confidential,” said State Coordinating Officer Henry Renteria, director of the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (OES). “We certainly don't want privacy concerns to stop people from seeking help. They should register so they don't miss out.”
The deadline is April 4 to apply for state and federal assistance for damages sustained in the flooding of Dec. 17-Jan. 3. Individual assistance is available for residents and business owners in Contra Costa, Del Norte, El Dorado, Lake, Marin, Mendocino, Napa, Nevada, Sacramento, Shasta, Siskiyou, Solano and Sonoma counties.
Last Modified: Thursday, 09-Mar-2006 16:46:04