New Livingston Parish Flood Maps Show Risk

WASHINGTON, March 20 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security'sFederal Emergency Management Agency issued the following news release:

Livingston Parish homeowners, business owners and business and residential renters who do not have flood insurance are encouraged to buy coverage now to get the best possible premiums before new flood insurance rate maps go into effect.

The new Livingston Parish flood maps, which include all Livingston Parish communities, become effective on Tuesday, April 3. Those who haven't purchased flood insurance yet still have time to get the best possible premiums to protect their property from potential flooding.

"FEMA and the National Flood Insurance Program recommend that everyone has flood insurance," said Andre Cadogan, Federal Emergency Management Agency's Louisiana Recovery Office deputy director of programs. "The reason is simple - you don't have to be in a mapped floodplain to flood."

Current policy holders and those planning to purchase NFIP protection are encouraged to contact their insurance company or agent to ensure that they have adequate coverage for building and contents that considers any new flood risk data.

Those who purchase flood insurance prior to April 3 may be able to grandfather in the current flood zone, saving money on flood insurance. For more information on estimated rates for flood insurance, whether you are eligible for grandfathering, the Preferred Risk Policy extension or to locate an agent in your area, visit http://www.floodsmart.gov/.

Anyone who has not had a chance to participate in local flood insurance meetings or to review the new flood maps is encouraged to contact Livingston Parish Floodplain Administrator DeeDee Delatte, who can be reached at (225) 686-3021.

To view the maps online, please visit FEMA Map Service Center at www.msc.fema.gov

-To use the live chat service, visit go.usa.gov/r6C. Click on the "Live Chat" icon.

-To contact a FEMA Map Specialist, call 1-877-FEMA MAP (1-877-336-2627) or send an email to [email protected]

TNS MJ88-120321-3812536 StaffFurigay