Severe Weather Resources
When severe weather affects your community, there are multiple resources available to help you navigate the physical and emotional damage it leaves behind. The resources below can help if you need disaster relief assistance.
FEMA
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is the official government agency that coordinates disaster recovery in the United States and its territories. If your county has been officially declared a federal disaster area, you can apply for assistance to pay for damages typically not covered by insurance. For more information about individual disaster recovery, visit FEMA’s website or DisasterAssistance.gov.
American Red Cross
The American Red Cross provides a range of services related to disaster relief, including food, supplies, shelter, first aid and comfort to victims. The organization mobilizes quickly and responds to natural disasters all over the United States.
Combining the immediacy of technology with the necessity of disaster relief, the American Red Cross offers free mobile apps for download. Find first aid information or even shelter using apps from this list.
Locating Family After a Disaster
If you need assistance locating family members after a disaster, both FEMA and the American Red Cross offer these helpful resources.
FEMA National Emergency Registry and Locator System Fact Sheet (activated during major disasters only)
American Red Cross Safe and Well Listings
Disaster Relief Scams
Whether you need disaster relief assistance or want to donate an organization, be aware that scam artists prey on this opportunity to steal money and personal information from unsuspecting victims.
Legitimate organizations work diligently to help support disaster relief efforts. To make sure you are involved with a valid charity, do your homework. Sites like Charity Navigator, GuideStar or CharityWatch can verify if the relief organization is established.
If the charity requests your personal information via phone, email or text, that’s a red flag. Legitimate groups will never solicit your banking information or social security number that way.
Pay attention to your email as well. Don’t open suspicious emails or click on links within as these may contain viruses or malware that could lead to identity theft.
Report a Claim
If you have been affected by a disaster and need assistance, First Baldwin Insurance is here to help guide you through the claims process. You can file a claim online or call 251-943-6677.