1,434 Seek FEMA Aid in Storm Aftermath

The Federal Emergency Management Agency has received 1,434 applications for aid from Ventura County residents who sustained flood and storm damage, officials said Tuesday.

That is the fifth-highest number out of the 40 California counties that have been declared disaster areas.

FEMA has received 31,777 applications from residents throughout the state, 12,015 of them from Los Angeles County residents. Alameda, Monterey and Contra Costa counties follow Los Angeles.

As of Monday, FEMA has issued more than $10 million in checks for temporary housing and home repairs.

“There are still a lot of people out there who need help,” spokeswoman Elizabeth Quirk said. “We’re urging anyone who has suffered losses from the storms, even if they have insurance, to still apply. People shouldn’t try to decide for themselves if they are eligible.”

To register for diaster assistance, call (800) 462-9029.

FEMA officials also warned residents to ask for identification before letting someone inspect their homes. Both FEMA and state inspectors carry official identification. And if someone tries to charge for a FEMA inspection, it should be reported immediately. Such inspections are performed free.

FEMA officials also suggest residents deal only with licensed contractors.

“We just don’t want anybody being victimized a second time,” Quirk said.

To report fraudulent activity, call the FEMA office of the inspector general at (800) 323-8603.