News and Media: Disaster 4548

SALT LAKE CITY – A free legal aid hotline was created as part FEMA’s Disaster Legal Services (DLS) program for the Magna Earthquake and its aftershocks.  The service is open to residents of Salt Lake and Davis counties.

Residents who need legal assistance for earthquake-related issues but cannot afford an attorney can call toll-free 800-662-4245. The line is open Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. DLS attorneys are not FEMA employees. Their services are confidential, and they do not share information with FEMA.

SALT LAKE CITY – Earthquake damage to a home or business can mimic regular wear and tear.  This can allow it to go unnoticed because it’s not obvious or may be located in rarely used rooms or spaces.  

You may have sustained damage from the recent Utah earthquake and aftershocks and not even know it.  So it’s important to take a second look, as "hidden" damage could pose major structural or safety hazards.

Taking the simple steps below will help you spot any earthquake damage.

SALT LAKE CITY – One month ago, President Trump approved a major disaster declaration for Utah in response to the Magna earthquake and its aftershocks. In that time, federal agencies have provided more than $600,000 in grants and loans to assist in recovery.

To date, 312 Utah residents have been referred for federal assistance and FEMA has paid more than $240,000 for home repair and rental expenses and other critical needs.

SALT LAKE CITY – President Trump’s federal disaster declaration has made help available to Utahns who suffered damage as a result of the Magna Quake and aftershocks. 

Residents and businesses in Davis and Salt Lake County are eligible.  Damage must have occurred between March 18 and April 17.

Low-interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) are an important form of this assistance. These loans are not just for businesses. Homeowners, renters and private nonprofit organizations can also apply.

SALT LAKE CITY – Often after a disaster, scam artists and identity thieves attempt to prey on vulnerable survivors.

Sometimes, those who try to register with FEMA discover that someone has already registered using their name. Scammers may contact survivors who have not registered with FEMA and try to extract money or information. In these cases, it’s likely the survivor’s personal data has been compromised.

But there are steps you can take to guard against fraud and identity theft.