Free Advice on Protecting Houses and Businesses From Future Disasters

DES MOINES, Iowa, May 4 -- The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency issued the following news release:

As Iowans rebuild or repair the damage to their homes caused by the storms that began March 12, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and local home improvement stores have teamed up to provide free information, tips and literature on making houses and businesses stronger and safer.

FEMA mitigation specialists will be on hand at in-store information centers to answer questions, and offer home improvement tips and proven methods to prevent and lessen damage from future disasters. Most of the information is geared for do-it-yourselfers and general contractors.

Mitigation teams also will have free reference booklets in English and Spanish on mold and mildew clean-up, as well as protecting your home from flood damage. More information about strengthening property can be found at http://www.fema.gov/what-mitigation

Other forms of information available at the locations include: building a storm shelter or safe room, creating an emergency supply kit and floodproofing for businesses.

FEMA specialists will be available from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Mondays through Wednesdays on the following dates: May 6-8, May 13-15 and May 20-22 at: Walmart Supercenter 705 South Fremont St. Shenandoah, IA 51601

Iowans who have questions about their flood insurance policies and coverage should contact the National Flood Insurance Program call center at 800-621-3362 between 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (CDT) Monday through Friday. Specialists can help service claims, provide general information regarding policies and offer technical assistance to aid in recovery. You also can go online https://www.fema.gov/national- flood-insurance-program to find help.

Disaster recovery assistance is available without regard to race, color, religion, nationality, sex, age, disability, English proficiency or economic status. If you or someone you know has faced discrimination, call FEMA toll-free at 800-621-3362, voice/711/video relay service. Multilingual operators are available. TTY users may call 800-462-7585.