MOORHEAD, Minn. -- Federal disaster officials know one thing for certain...they cannot stop disasters, but they can show residents cost-effective ways to reduce future disaster damages.

Teams of hazard mitigation specialists from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) visit home-improvement stores in Polk County next week to offer tips and answer questions residents may have about protecting their homes.

The FEMA representatives explain flood- and wind-resistant building techniques and offer advice on topics such as home elevation, safe rooms, wind straps, flood insurance and other measures to make homes stronger and safer. They also offer free publications on similar topics.

The Polk County schedule for May 26-30 includes the following:

Tuesday-Wednesday, May 26-27, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
Northern Lumber
311 N Broadway
Crookston, MN 56716

Thursday-Friday, May 28-29, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Crookston Building and Rent it Center
537 Marin Ave.
Crookston, MN 56716

Saturday, May 30, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
Lumber Mart
1910 Business Hwy 2
East Grand Forks, MN 56721

FEMA leads and supports the nation in a risk-based, comprehensive emergency management system of preparedness, protection, response, recovery, and mitigation, to reduce the loss of life and property and protect the nation from all hazards including natural disasters, acts of terrorism, and other man-made disasters.