Rep. Courtney Will Support Governor Rell's Disaster Declaration When Completed

Press Release

After touring the flood-ravaged areas of eastern Connecticut and speaking to local officials and residents, Congressman Joe Courtney announced today that he stands ready to support Governor M. Jodi Rell's request for a federal disaster declaration should the Connecticut Governor make such a request.

"Southeastern Connecticut has been severely impacted by this historic storm, and we must move forward expeditiously to begin repairing property and restoring lives," stated Courtney. "When the Governor makes her official request for federal relief from these storms, as Rhode Island has already done, I will be ready to support her request and strongly advocate on behalf of Connecticut. In the mean time, I will continue to closely monitor this urgent situation, and work with state and local officials to make sure that residents impacted by the storm have the resources and information they need."

Congressman Courtney visited multiple towns that were impacted by the storm. "As always, I am impressed by the strength and resiliency of my Connecticut neighbors, and I applaud the leadership of our local town officials who have met this challenge head. I also thank the Connecticut National Guard and our first-responders for their quick and professional response."

Helpful tips for those impacted by the storm:

* Before requesting federal disaster assistance, the State of Connecticut must first prepare a Preliminary Damage Assessment (PDA) to determine whether the level of uninsured damage meets federal thresholds. If so, the Governor would then transmit a request to the President for a federal emergency declaration. If approved, federal resources could then be available to towns in the area, as well as potentially individuals and households. Click here for more information from FEMA on the disaster declaration and aid process.

* Property owners should first contact their insurance provider to determine whether the damage to their home or business is covered. Click here for more insurance and claim resources.

* Uninsured damage and costs should be reported to city or town emergency management or civil preparedness directors. This information is critical for preparing a request for federal aid in response to the storm. Click here to find an emergency management and civil preparedness director in your area.

* Property owners should take pictures of damage inside and outside homes or businesses prior to clean-up and repair and should also keep a file with receipts and records of bulky waste pickups, tree removal, replacement items and repair costs (especially uninsured costs). Click here for more information about documenting damage.

* Residents with questions about insurance claims and coverage related to this week's flooding can call the state Insurance Department's toll-free hotline at 800-203-3447.

* Homeowners should beware potential scams related to clean up and recovery, and check that potential contractors are licensed in the state of Connecticut. Residents can visit www.ct.gov/dcp and go to 'Verify a License,' or call the DCP (800) 842-2649, for more information and assistance

* Any resident needing shelter as a result of damage or loss of their home can contact 1-800-RED-CROSS for assistance.

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