State encourages storm damage reporting

    AUGUSTA — State officials are asking all individuals and business owners whose property or business has been damaged by the recent ice storm and power outages, or who had other losses to call 211 Maine and report their damages. Businesses that suffered a significant loss of revenue because of the storm may also report.

    “This is not an application for assistance,” Gov. Paul LePage said in a press release. “We need to know how many people have been impacted, and where they are, in order to assess what kinds of assistance might be available. We’re asking people to report to 211 so that we know the extent of damages and losses. The 211 call specialists also have health and safety information available, and may be able to refer you to some kinds of help right away.”
    State officials emphasize that it is also very important for people to contact their insurance companies if they had damages caused by fallen trees, or other insured damages from the storm.
    Typical losses from ice storms and power outages include damages to buildings and vehicles from falling trees and ice, burst pipes and lost food. It is recommended, if possible, to photograph any damages before cleanup or repair to keep as a record of the loss.
    Although central, Downeast and midcoast locations were hardest hit, the impact of the storm was felt in many areas of the state. Only one report per household is needed. Those calling 211 should be prepared to give: 1. Name of individual/family affected; 2. County; 3. 3. Town; 4. Physical address of property affected; 5. Current address;
    6. Telephone number to be reached at; 7. Nature of issues or damages; 8. For business owners, approximate dollars, days or other measure of revenue lost.