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Camp Fire Victims Awaiting Inspection Won't Lose FEMA Aid

CHICO (AP) -- Federal officials say survivors of the deadly Camp Fire will not lose disaster assistance if they are unable to get their homes inspected in the next month.

Camp Fire - Butte County - California Wildfires
Sara Sullivan recovers a figurine from her Magalia, Calif., home, destroyed in the Camp Fire. (AP Photo/Noah Berger)

Kevin Hannes, of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, said Saturday that he wanted to dispel a rumor that Butte County residents would lose benefits if their homes don't receive a FEMA inspection within 30 days.

Hannes spoke alongside Sheriff Kory Honea at a news conference at a disaster recovery center in Chico.

CONTINUING CAMP FIRE COVERAGE

Hannes says many residents also mistakenly believed they needed a verification letter from a government official if their property is still inaccessible.

Some may have received a denial letter because more information about their insurance is needed.

Residents should call (800) 621-3362 to request a FEMA inspector, not the sheriff's office.

© Copyright 2018 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report

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