News and Media: Disaster 4795

Following the South Fork and Salt Fires and floods, many New Mexicans needed to leave their homes. Some are now returning to their property to learn the extent of their damage and the livability of their housing. When entering buildings damaged by flood or fire, your personal safety is always the highest priority.

Disaster Recovery Centers (DRCs) operated by the State of New Mexico and FEMA in Ruidoso and on the Mescalero Apache Reservation will be closed on Sundays beginning July 14.

Homeowners and renters in two additional New Mexico counties – Rio Arriba and San Juan – are now eligible to receive FEMA Individual Assistance (IA) grants to help them recover from the South Fork and Salt Fires and floods, which began June 17. Rio Arriba and San Juan counties join Lincoln and Otero counties, as well as the Mescalero Apache Reservation which were previously approved in June.

FEMA and the New Mexico Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (NMDHSEM) caution residents to be aware of post-disaster fraud and scams. Attempts to scam residents can be made over the phone, by mail or email, through the internet or in person. It is important to remain alert, as con artists are creative and resourceful.

If you are self-employed, FEMA may be able to provide funds to repair or replace disaster-damaged tools and equipment required for your work. This help is available to a wide range of applicants, including farmers, artists, musicians, mechanics and many other occupations. FEMA may also be able to help if you are an employee and you lost tools or equipment required for your job and not reimbursable by your employer.