Municipal Affairs
August 1, 2008Disaster
Recovery Assistance Application Available for Northeastern Communities
Due to the damages caused by heavy rainfall in the
northeastern region of the province, the Honourable Dave Denine,
Minister of Municipal Affairs and Minister Responsible for Fire and
Emergency Services � Newfoundland and Labrador (FES-NL), announced today
that disaster recovery assistance applications will be made available
for businesses and home owners affected by flooding in that region.
�The large weather system resulting in severe thunder storms and heavy
rain from July 29 and into July 31 caused considerable damage to many
homes and businesses,� said Minister Denine. �Fire and Emergency
Services � Newfoundland and Labrador along with the Departments of
Municipal Affairs, Transportation and Works and Human Resources, Labour
and Employment have convened disaster recovery efforts in the Town of
Gambo.�
On Thursday morning, Provincial Government officials began assessing the
damage to municipal and provincial infrastructure. Residences and small
businesses also sustained significant damage. As work continues to
repair key roads and thoroughfares, residents and business owners are
encouraged to carefully begin their own clean-up. Those experiencing
damage are encouraged to obtain Provincial Government financial
assistance application forms from their town council office or by
calling FES-NL.
Minister Denine will be writing the Federal Minister of Public Safety
Stockwell Day, to request assistance under the Federal Government
Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements. A formal response will be
anticipated in the coming days.
Those affected should keep the following tips in mind:
- If you suspect you have flood insurance on your
home or business, contact your insurance company immediately.
- If there is water remaining inside a home or
business, ensure it is safe before entering.
- It is advisable to leave appliances and
electrical equipment unplugged. DO NOT restart or use water-damaged
appliances.
- Take photos and/or video footage of all damaged
possessions such as clothing, appliances, furniture, etc. Proper
documentation is essential for any disaster recovery financial
assistance.
- Record all damaged items in a well-organized
inventory accompanied by pictures and/or video footage.
- Businesses should take measures to secure their
facility from the elements while protecting current inventory.
- Clearly photograph and document any visible
interior and exterior structural damage.
- Begin the process of removing water/sewage
back-up. Ensure you wear appropriate protective clothing whether
contamination exists or not.
- Remove damaged items from the home or business,
but do not dispose. Keep damaged items in a shed, garage or
accessible location until adjusters/officials have an opportunity to
inspect them.
- Obtain a disaster recovery application from a
town office or from FES-NL, and complete it thoroughly with as much
detail and supporting documentation (pictures, video, etc.) as
possible. Submit the completed application as quickly as possible.
�From similar events like Tropical Storm Chantal in
August 2007, we understand recovery assistance takes time,� said
Minister Denine. �I commend the municipality and emergency responders on
handling this situation with great success. Everyone pulled together to
ensure the community remained safe. Those affected by flooding can rest
assured that the Provincial Government will aid those affected.�
Beginning on Monday, August 4, at 8 a.m. those seeking assistance with
claim applications may contact FES-NL at 1-888-395-5611 or e-mail
nlemo@gov.nl.ca. All residents are
asked to exercise patience throughout the application process.
Public information sessions will be organized in the near future and an
announcement on location and time will be forthcoming.
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Media contact:
Bradley Power
Public Relations Specialist
Fire and Emergency Services � Newfoundland and Labrador
709-729-3703, 697-5216
BradleyPower@gov.nl.ca
2008 08 01
12:05 p.m.