Thaindian News

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — State and federal officials encourage Arkansas residents, living in Miller, Polk, and Sevier counties, with losses and damages from the April 9 severe storms and tornadoes to call and register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) as soon as possible.

People with hearing or speech impairments may call (TTY) 800-462-7585. The toll-free registration numbers are available from 8 a.m. to midnight, daily. Also, online registration is available 24 hours a day at www.fema.gov.

Under the presidential declaration of April 27, 2009, the disaster-designated counties of Miller, Polk and Sevier are eligible for Individual Assistance to help individuals and families cope with the losses and damages from the tornado.

“It is important to call FEMA even though you may have contacted other agencies or volunteer organizations in your area,” State Coordinating Officer Richard Griffin of the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) said. “Keep clear records and receipts of any repairs and take photos if possible.”

Applicants are advised to have the following information available to help speed up the application process:

* A current phone number where you can be contacted;
* Your address at the time of the disaster and the address where they are now staying;
* Your Social Security number, if available;
* A general list of damages and losses; and
* If insured, the insurance policy number, or the agent and company name.

Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are available to homeowners, renters and businesses. Call the SBA at 1-800-659-2955 or visit the Web site at www.sba.gov/services/disasterassistance.

“Registration is the first important step in the recovery process,” Federal Coordinating Officer Mike Moore said. “Even if you have registered for assistance with FEMA for other disasters, it’s important that you call and register again for the April tornado incident.”

The Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM) is the state’s homeland security and emergency management agency. The agency works to identify and lessen the effects of emergencies, disasters and threats to Arkansas by developing effective prevention, preparedness, mitigation, response and recovery actions for all disasters and emergencies.

FEMA coordinates the federal government’s role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terrorism.