Flood Insurance, Elevation Of Homes Are Top Mitigation Questions
Release Date: February 14, 2009
Release Number: 1791-400
» More Information on Texas Hurricane Ike
AUSTIN, Texas -- Flood insurance, home elevation and other measures to protect homes from flooding and hurricanes are among top concerns Texans are seeking information about from hazard mitigation specialists with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
The specialists are located in home improvement stores in cities and communities affected by the hurricane to make it easy for shoppers and others to get information on how to better protect their homes from disasters. Other issues homeowners are asking about include dealing with contractors, cleaning up mold and working with insurance adjustors.
Homeowners also want to know what they can do at minimum costs to protect their homes from hurricanes and flooding, and prepare their homes in other ways for disasters. The FEMA specialists provide information that includes advice about elevating utilities, installing sewer backflow valves, putting in storm windows and shutters, trimming trees to reduce storm damage and the safe use of emergency generators.
Several home improvement stores are participating in the mitigation outreach program. In February and March, FEMA specialists will be in stores in Brazoria, Galveston, Harris, Fort Bend, Jasper, Jefferson, Orange and Polk counties.
The schedule of times and stores where the FEMA specialists are located is at www.fema.gov/hazard/hurricane/2008/ike/mitigation_help on the Web.
FEMA leads and supports the nation in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery, and mitigation, to reduce the loss of life and property and protect the nation from all hazards including natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other man-made disasters.
Last Modified: Tuesday, 17-Feb-2009 10:19:57