Frequently Asked Questions About Disasters

Shelters often have policies regarding pets. When possible, Red Cross shelter workers will do their best to accommodate domesticated pets comfortably. However, depending on the situation, pets may need to be housed in a different location with support from animal welfare groups.  

Animal shelters may be: cohabitated - shelters place animals and owners in the same space; or collocated - placing animals within local commuting distance of their owners or standalone.

 Service animals are always welcome in emergency shelters.

Child care assistance expenses may include:

• Standard child care service fees.
• Registration fee (one-time).
• Health inventory fees.

To apply for child care assistance, you will need to provide:

• Proof that the child is a dependent and occupant of your home.
• Proof of pre- and post-disaster annual gross household income.
• Pre-disaster receipts or an affidavit for child care expenses.
• Post-disaster receipts or estimates for child care fees, registration and/or health inventory fees.
• Child care providers license information.

After a flood incident, you should report your loss immediately to your insurance agent or carrier. Be sure to ask them about advance payments. Need help finding your insurance agent or carrier? Call the NFIP at 877-336-2627.

Yes! Before removing flood-damaged items from your home, take these steps:

• Take photos and videos.
• Record serial numbers.
• Keep receipts.
• Contact repair services.

Yes. After taking photos and documenting damage, you should immediately throw away flooded items that pose a health risk, such as perishable food items, clothing, cushions, and pillows.

Through the Individuals and Households Program (IHP), FEMA may provide funds to address damage from mold.   If you are a homeowner, you may receive Home Repair funds for clean up, removal, or remediation of disaster-caused mold. To be eligible for this assistance, FEMA must verify that you are unable to live in your home because of the disaster-caused mold damage. 

If your home received minor damage from the disaster and FEMA determines you can still live safely in your home, renters and homeowners may be eligible for Clean and Sanitize Assistance.  This assistance is only available in certain disasters and is intended to provide you with limited funds to prevent additional loss and potential health and safety concerns, such as mold growth.  

National Flood Insurance Program flood insurance policies will not cover damage from mold.

There may be considerations made if:

• An authorized official has banned entrance to the area (for safety reasons).
• Floodwaters remain around the home or in the area that prevent you from inspecting or maintaining the property.

However, if you can access your property, you are strongly encouraged to begin cleanup and documentation immediately after a flood to prevent the growth and spread of mold.

If you are unsatisfied with the amount of your claim or receive a denial letter for some or all of your claim, you can:

• Work with your insurance company to find a resolution.
• File an appeal with FEMA.
• Seek an appraisal.
• File a lawsuit.

Tap water may be contaminated and not safe to use or drink after a disaster.

• Follow your state, local, or tribal health department for specific recommendations regarding boiling or treating water in your area.
• Do not drink, wash dishes, brush your teeth, wash and prepare food, wash your hands, make ice, or mix baby formula with water you think -- or have been told -- is unsafe.
• If water in your area is contaminated, use bottled, boiled, or treated water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene.

To learn more, visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s guide on Emergency Disinfection of Drinking Water

No. FEMA will review your application and determine your eligibility for Temporary Housing Assistance.  If you have questions about specific types of assistance, you can contact FEMA’s Helpline at 800-621-3362.