ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – FEMA is advising residents to check heating appliances heading into the winter months after the damage of Hurricane Helene.
As temperatures are dropping, it is important to check heating systems, water heaters, furnaces, and other electrical appliances that may have been damaged during Helene.
If appliances are damaged or not working and insurance will not cover expenses, you may be eligible to receive aid from FEMA to repair or replace them.
To apply for assistance, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov, call 800-621-3362, or use the FEMA App on your phone. If you need in-person assistance go to your local Disaster Recovery Center. The deadline for registration is Monday, December 2.
When you apply for this assistance, make sure to state if any other critical electrical appliances were damaged by the storm. FEMA could be able to provide reimbursement for the appliance with a licensed technician’s estimate of a possible repair of the item.
If you have already received aid or repairments of appliances, send FEMA the estimates or receipts.
If your heating system needs replacing after receiving a FEMA grant, you can process FEMA appeals for more assistance at a Disaster Recovery Center call the FEMA helpline at 1-800-621-3362.
If you need an appeal, you have 60 days from your determination letter. For more information about appeals visit, www.fema.gov/assistance/individual/after-applying/appeals.
Consider the following tips to keep you safe during the winter months:
- Inspect the exterior of your home to check for cracks or gaps in your weatherstripping and caulking. Seal any air leaks you detect.
- Replace furnace and heat pump filters once a month or as needed. Ensure interior and exterior vents are clean and not obstructed.
- Clean your gutters of fallen leaves and twigs to allow for proper drainage for rain and melting snow. Ensure downspouts are draining away from the foundation of your home.
- Drain the water from outdoor garden hoses. Disconnect hoses from faucets and cover the faucets.
- Clear debris from your roof. Cut back overhanging branches to prevent damage to shingles and gutters.
- Check your attic and ceilings for staining from water leakage. While you’re up there, make sure the attic is properly ventilated to prevent mold and mildew.
For more #WinterReady guidance visit, https://www.ready.gov/winter-weather.
For information on Virginia’s Disaster Recovery, visit vaemergency.gov, the Virginia Department of Emergency Management Facebook page, fema.gov/disaster/4831 and facebook.com/FEMA.