Contacting FEMA is vital step in getting assistance

Area residents who were affected by last week’s storms are eligible for federal assistance through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, but it is up to residents to take action.

After contacting their insurance companies, residents are encouraged to contact FEMA at 1-800-621-3362 to begin the initial registration process. After registering, residents will be able to visit the local disaster recovery center located at the Russellville Recreation Center.

It is important to register before visiting the center so that victims can be helped in a timely manner.

It is also important to be proactive in contacting FEMA. While the agency exists to help victims of disasters, it does not actively seek out individual victims, so it is vital you contact FEMA as soon as possible after talking with your insurance company so you can receive all assistance you are entitled to.