09/03/11 Jim Himes Says His Office Is Available To Provide Assistance To Those Affected By Hurricane Irene

The Honorable Jim Himes

Connecticut’s 4th District

August 30, 2011

Himes Offers Assistance to Constituents Affected by Hurricane Irene

WASHINGTON, DC – In the wake of Hurricane Irene and its extensive damage to the Fourth District, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-4) is offering his constituents assistance to help keep them safe, ensure they are able to collect the most for lost or damaged property, and let them know about helpful resources going forward.

“Over the past few days, I have visited several towns throughout the Fourth District and have seen first-hand the damage caused by this hurricane. We have a long way to go in dealing with the effects of this natural disaster, and it will be days – if not weeks – before things return to normal,” said Himes. “I and my office are here to assist my constituents in any way that we can. I have created an Irene recovery page on my website that provides useful resources to assist my constituents in their recovery efforts.”

While trained crews work around the clock to de-energize downed power lines and get power grids up and running, Himes is urging individuals to avoid downed power lines. To report power outages, downed power lines or other utilities-related problems in your areas, residents should call their utility provider:

· Connecticut Light & Power: Customer Service Number: 1-800-286-2000
· United Illuminating: Customer Service Number: 1-800-7-CALL-UI (1-800-722-5584)
In addition to the widespread outages that continue to affect residents of Southwestern Connecticut, many have also experienced damages to their homes or property. Himes is reminding his constituents to file claims with their insurance companies to recover the costs of the damage caused by Irene, and is suggesting that residents take photos of the damage, save receipts for transactions involving fixing damaged property, and call their insurance companies to file claims immediately. Residents can find more information at the Connecticut Insurance Department’s website, here.

Residents whose property is not fully covered by insurance may be eligible for federal disaster assistance. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will begin setting up disaster recovery centers (DRCs) and accepting applications for assistance shortly. Residents can learn more about applying for relief here. Himes is also urging his constituents to contact their local emergency operations centers (EOCs) to report their damages here.

Finally, the American Red Cross has been mobilizing throughout Connecticut. Himes urges all residents who need shelter, food or water or who would like to help to contact them at 877-787-3327.

Himes has visited Bridgeport, Fairfield, Greenwich, Norwalk, Stamford, Weston and Westport to capture a glimpse at the damages caused by Hurricane Irene and to speak with local officials on the ongoing recovery. He plans to visit other communities in the Fourth District later this week.