Internet Disaster Assistance Registration Available
www.fema.gov: You Are A Click Away From Help
Release Date: February 18, 2005
Release Number: 1580-002
» More Information on Ohio Severe Winter Storms, Flooding and Mudslides
COLUMBUS, Ohio -- There are two ways for residents affected by the recent severe winter storms and flooding in 18 Ohio counties to register for disaster assistance with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Those with Internet access who suffered disaster damage between December 22, 2004 and February 1, 2005 may register by going to www.fema.gov and clicking on the “Register for Disaster Assistance Online” box. If you do not have Internet capabilities, visit a local library or reach out to family members with access to help complete the application.
“Offering registration online is one more way for Ohio disaster victims to access the help they need,” said Federal Coordinating Officer Lee Champagne of FEMA. “We make every effort to get people on the road to recovery as quickly and effectively as possible.”
FEMA also continues to provide toll-free application numbers - 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) and 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. Both numbers are available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., seven days a week until further notice. Multilingual operators are available.
“The online registration is a wonderful way for Ohioans to register for assistance and do so on their own time, at their convenience,” said State Coordinating Officer Nancy Dragani, Executive Director of the Ohio Emergency Management Agency. “I encourage those who are eligible to register for assistance through the Internet.”
When they call to register by phone or online, individuals should be prepared to give their contact information and Social Security number along with insurance and financial information.
The Ohio Emergency Management Agency coordinates the state's response and recovery from the State of Ohio Emergency Operations Center. One of the primary focuses of the agency is to ensure that Ohio citizens are prepared to respond to and recover from an emergency or disaster and to lead mitigation efforts against the effects of future disasters. During times of disasters, Ohio EMA coordinates activities of responding state agencies and maintains liaison with similar agencies of other states and of the federal government.
FEMA prepares the nation for all hazards and effectively manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, trains first responders, 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: Friday, 18-Feb-2005 16:39:21