MONTGOMERY, Ala. – As Alabamians clean up the damage left by the April 28 to May 5 severe storms, tornadoes, straight-line winds and flooding and begin to rebuild, federal officials are offering help on how to make the next natural disaster less destructive.

Specialists with the Federal Emergency Management Agency will be appearing at Lowe’s home improvement stores around Alabama, to offer residents information about rebuilding their flood- and wind-damaged homes to make them better able to withstand future disasters.

“Our mitigation specialists can really help with rebuilding after a disaster,” said FEMA’s Federal Coordinating Officer, Albert “Albie” Lewis. “We can show you cost-effective ways to make your home or business ‘better and safer’ the next time tornadoes, flooding or some other disaster strikes.”

Mitigation advisors can provide valuable information on how to reinforce structures against flooding and other hazards, how to construct a safe room, and information on the National Flood Insurance Program.

They can also offer advice on rebuilding structures to resist high winds, mold and mildew cleanup, and how electrical systems, furnaces and other appliances can be protected from flooding. Free publications on a variety of rebuilding and recovery topics will also be available.

“As our state rebuilds, we should take every step we can to make our homes, businesses, and communities more resilient,” said Alabama’s State Coordinating Officer, Jeff Byard. “Spending just a little more today could save lives and property the next time a disaster strikes.”

Mitigation teams will be at the following stores on the following dates from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.:

Limestone County
June 6-7, June 9-11
Lowes Store # 1799
1109 US Highway 72 East
Athens, AL 35611

Etowah County
June 13-14, June 16-18
Lowes Store #1640
615 George Wallace Dr.
Gadsden, AL 35903

Tuscaloosa County
June 13-14, June 16-18
Lowes Store #2488
5703 Mcfarland Blvd
Northport, AL 35476

Baldwin County
June 13-14, June 16-18
Lowes Store #577
3101 South Mckenzie Hwy 59
Foley, AL 36535

In addition to the mitigation advisors, an Individual Assistance representative will also be on hand to provide general information about assistance to survivors. For specific case information, survivors can contact FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).

To download materials on a variety of topics about strengthening property against tornadoes, flooding or other hazards, visit:

• http://www.fema.gov/small-business-toolkit/protect-your-property-or-business-disaster
• http://www.fema.gov/building-science/2013-tornadoes-building-science-activities-resources
• http://www.ready.gov/tornadoes