Officials say residents need to follow process

Some things to know when filing emergency claims.

By: John Patten
   Officials said residents need to be aware of the process used by the federal government and by insurers in emergency claims. Here’s a summary of the important points the officials made at the May 3 town meeting:
   • Greg Dawson, a public information officer with the Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance and Recovery Office, said low-interest loans made to residents and businesses as part of the disaster relief are processed by the Small Business Administration.
   "Don’t get confused when you see ‘SBA’ — we make low-interest loans to homeowners and renters," he said.
   Homeowners can receive up to $200,000, while renters can borrow up to $40,000. Businesses can get loans up $1.5 million, and may be able to recover money lost when closed for an emergency.
   • Mr. Dawson also said all federal and state assistance programs are coordinated through the SBA, so even those not seeking a loan should submit the loan application form.
   "You may not want a loan, you may not need a loan," he said, "but you do need to complete the process because that will open doors for you."
   • When asked why residents were being given wide variations in what their insurance covered, FEMA’s Marshall Mabry said residents need to check their insurance policies.
   "There are three components of flood insurance," he said. "They all have different deductibles, different content coverage, and different structural coverage."
   He also said anyone not satisfied with insurer’s settlements can appeal the settlement.
   • Manville’s Office of Emergency Management will be creating a volunteer group to assist police, fire and rescue crews during emergencies, according to OEM Director Ken Otrimski.
   The group, called the Community Emergency Response Team, will be trained in first aid, emergency procedures used by police and firefighters. Mr. Otrimski said residents Bob Kita and Karen Ziemianek will be CERT trainers after completing their own training.