FEMA Specialists to Help those Affected By South GA Storms: Where & When

ATLANTA, Ga. -- Beginning Monday, May 11, hazard mitigation specialists from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will be on hand at four Lowe's stores in south Georgia to advise people affected by the late March and early April storms and flooding. The stores are located in Coffee, Colquitt, Lowndes and Tift counties.

Teams of specialists will provide publications and advice to assist Georgians rebuilding in the disaster-affected communities. Those who visit will be able to receive information on essential repairs needed to restore residences that are not safe, sanitary and functional due to mold and mildew, as well as preparations that need to be considered for the upcoming hurricane season.

"The Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) and FEMA are making sure that disaster survivors get information about cleaning up damages and being better prepared for future disasters," said GEMA Director Charley English.

Mitigation specialists will be at the following Lowe's locations, starting Monday:

Coffee County - Store 1783, 1340 Bowens Mills Road, Douglas 31533

Colquitt County - Store 2621, 602 Veterans Parkway North, Moultrie 31788

Lowndes County - Store 1794, 1106 North Augustine Road, Valdosta 31601

Tift County - Store 1508, 2000 U.S. Highway 82 West, Tifton 31793

"Our hazard mitigation specialists are on the ground to help people get disaster assistance information, connect with affected communities and assist individuals with the problems they are facing," said Terry Quarles, Federal Coordinating Officer for Georgia disaster recovery. "These skilled professionals provide vital recovery information to people who may otherwise not be aware of help available to them."

GEMA and FEMA urge anyone in the affected counties with disaster-related losses to register for assistance. Registration is available online at www.DisasterAssistance.gov and by calling the disaster Helpline 800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 800-462-7585.

Mitigation specialists are trained and aware of building issues and steps that can be taken to prevent damage from future disasters and can provide the 800-427-4661 number for flood insurance available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Additionally, specialists can direct applicants to the Small Business Administration (SBA) for information regarding disaster loans that can also include mitigation funding.

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.

More Information on Storms, Flooding and Tornadoes