Municipal Affairs
August 1, 2008

Disaster 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:

  1. If you suspect you have flood insurance on your home or business, contact your insurance company immediately.
  2. If there is water remaining inside a home or business, ensure it is safe before entering.
  3. It is advisable to leave appliances and electrical equipment unplugged. DO NOT restart or use water-damaged appliances.
  4. 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.
  5. Record all damaged items in a well-organized inventory accompanied by pictures and/or video footage.
  6. Businesses should take measures to secure their facility from the elements while protecting current inventory.
  7. Clearly photograph and document any visible interior and exterior structural damage.
  8. Begin the process of removing water/sewage back-up. Ensure you wear appropriate protective clothing whether contamination exists or not.
  9. 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.
  10. 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.
 


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