JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — Jacksonville residents may get a knock at their door from FEMA personnel in the coming days, and no, it's not a scam.
In an ongoing effort to assist residents impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton, FEMA is sending out its teams to carry out door-to-door outreach in Jacksonville neighborhoods.
FEMA teams will begin ground efforts starting Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to assist residents.
Personnel will be available to assist residents with the following:
- Answering questions about disaster assistance
- Helping submit a FEMA application
- Provide information about recovery programs and available resources
Here's what residents should expect
FEMA teams will be visiting homes to offer support for residents, particularly those affected by internet or phone outages.
No appointments are required, but residents are urged to have their documentation available, including identification and insurance information, if applicable.
If residents aren't home when FEMA comes to their area, personnel will leave behind a flyer with information regarding further assistance.
Protecting against scams and fraud
All FEMA representatives will wear identifying clothing and carry an official identification badge with their photograph. Residents are asked to make sure the person they're speaking with has their forms of identification, to ensure they aren't a scammer.
A FEMA representative will never ask for payment or sensitive personal information, like a Social Security number.
Scammers often use natural disasters to take advantage of people.
To combat against these fraudulent activities, follow these steps:
- Always ask for official FEMA identification
- If anyone demands money for FEMA services or residents suspect any fraudulent activity, report it immediately to the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office or the FEMA Disaster Fraud Hotline at 1-866-720-5721. Residents can also email StopFEMAFraud@fema.dhs.gov to report a tip.
Residents who have any concerns or would prefer to apply for FEMA assistance online, can visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov, or call 1-800-621-3362.
For the latest information on recovery efforts, visit JaxReady.com.
