Simpson County among communities visited by FEMA amid flood impacts

FRANKLIN, Ky. (WBKO) - Communities across Kentucky are beginning to see Federal Emergency Management Agency crews in neighborhoods following February’s severe storms and flooding.

Simpson County is among the areas in which FEMA teams are helping homeowners and renters apply for federal disaster assistance. Other Kentucky counties being visited include Breathitt, Clay, Estill, Floyd, Harlan, Johnson, Knott, Lee, Letcher, Martin, Owsley, Perry and Pike.

Amid the presence of disaster assistance crews, FEMA is reminding residents to remain diligent and avoid scams.

“FEMA teams will never ask for or accept money and will always be wearing a FEMA identification badge with a photograph,” the agency said in a relese. “A FEMA shirt, vest or jacket is not proof of identity. While helping someone apply, they will ask for personal information, including social security number, annual income and bank information. Residents are encouraged to ask for identification before providing any personal information.”

Those affected can also call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 to verify a visit is legitimate.

Anyone who believes they may be the victim of a scam is urged to immediately report it to their local police department, sheriff’s department or contact the Office of the Attorney General. The AG’s office can be reached through calling 502-696-5485 or visit its website at Natural Disaster Scams - Kentucky Attorney General.

To file a fraud complaint, go online to Scam Report. Suspect fraudulent activity involving FEMA can be reported to the FEMA Fraud Branch here.

To apply for FEMA assistance, visit the agency’s website, download the FEMA mobile app, visit a Disaster Recovery Center or call 800-621-3362. An accessible video tutorial for applying can be found here.

The deadline to apply for federal assistance is April 25.

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