VICTORIA - In response to the recent flooding in many parts of British Columbia, the provincial government is approving financial assistance for 14 communities to cover uninsurable property damages under the Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) program.

Disaster financial assistance has been authorized for the following communities:

* Columbia Shuswap Regional District - Area A
* Fraser Valley Regional District
* Greater Vancouver Regional District
* Squamish Lillooet Regional District
* Peace River Regional District
* Fraser Fort George Regional District
* City of Prince George
* Regional District of Bulkley-Nechako
* Town of Smithers
* Village of Telkwa
* Regional District of Kitimat-Stikine
* City of Terrace
* Village of Hazelton
* Nisga'a Lisim's Government
"While we know the 88 urgent mitigative works projects protected many homes and businesses, high water levels in some parts of the province caused damage to properties outside of standard dikes," said John Les, Minister of Public Safety and Solicitor General. "Now that the water is beginning to drop, those impacted by the floods can begin cleaning up and getting their lives back to normal and disaster financial assistanceis available for those who are eligible."

The DFA program helps eligible homeowners, residential tenants, farms, small businesses and charitable organizations when property is damaged by uninsurable disasters, including certain floods and mudslides. The program covers up to 80 per cent of an accepted claim over $1,000, to a maximum of $300,000. In 2005, the government raised the disaster funding assistance limit for eligible claimants from $100,000 to $300,000.

Before applying for Disaster Financial Assistance, individuals should check with their insurer to find out if their insurance will cover the damages. Applicants for Disaster Financial Assistance have 90 days to file an application after the assistance is authorized. Applications for this event must be received by August 26, 2007. DFA application forms and more information about the program are available at www.pep.bc.ca or by calling toll-free 1-888-257-4777.

The Provincial Emergency Program works year-round with local governments to prepare for emergencies and is a part of Emergency Management B.C., the over-arching body mandated to work with all relevant agencies and governments to reduce the impact of natural and non-natural disasters. For more information on how you and your family can get prepared for and stay safe during an emergency, visit www.pep.bc.ca.