Mitigation experts from the Federal Emergency Management Agency will visit Jefferson City from Thursday through Tuesday to offer home-improvement tips on rebuilding better and stronger residences after this year's severe storms.
The teams will also share methods to prevent or reduce damage from a disaster. Most of the information and free publications are aimed at general contractors and those willing to take on do-it-yourself projects, according to a FEMA news release.
These experts will be at Lowe's Home Improvement, 3441 Missouri Blvd., and Menard's, 810 Stonecreek Drive.
They'll be available at the following dates and times:
- Thursday - 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Friday - 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
- Saturday - 8 a.m.-1 p.m.
- Sunday - 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
- Tuesday - 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m.
A federal disaster was declared July 9 in Missouri after severe storms went through the state April 29 through July 5, generating flooding and tornadoes and making the state eligible for FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
"We do this anytime an area has gone through a major disaster," FEMA spokesperson Crystal Payton said. "It's been very successful because people can talk one-on-one with someone abut their particular building issue and many times find items right there in the store that can help them."
FEMA's Disaster Recovery Center that was located in the Cole County/Jefferson City Emergency Management Office on Southridge Drive has closed. However, disaster survivors are still encouraged to call 1-800-621-3362 or visit DisasterAssistance.gov to apply for FEMA financial assistance if they haven't already.