Representatives from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, arrived in Baker County on July 4.

They're encouraging residents affected by Tropical Storm Debby to register with the agency to begin the process of obtaining help that  includes grants for temporary housing (like motel rooms, rentals), home repairs and to cover other storm-related expenses.

An agency spokesperson, Pat Whitt, said today representatives will be knocking on doors in impacted areas to let residents know about the assistance made available following the July 3 federal disaster declaration by President Obama and FEMA.

Residents have 60 days from the declaration to register. The deadline is September 7.

Ms. Whitt said those affected by the storm should register, which can take as little as 15 minutes, as soon as possible because the turnaround time to receive assistance can be days, weeks or longer depending on the needs of each resident.

She said that all FEMA representatives will be wearing clothing with the FEMA logo, but they'll also have official credentials. You should not provide information about your property damage, insurance coverage or social security number to anyone that cannot prove they work for FEMA.

Residents can also call FEMA directly at 800-621-FEMA from 7 am to 10 pm local time, seven days a week to register. Those who are deaf or hard of hearing can use TTY, by calingl 800-462-7585.

Registration can be done online as well at www.disasterassistance.gov. Register by smartphone or tablet at m.fema.gov.

The US Small Business Administration can also provide low-interest loans to help with residential and business losses not covered by insurance. For more information or to obtain an SBA loan application, call 800-659-2955 (or 800-877-8339 for the deaf or hard of hearing) or online at www.sba.gov.