Governor Jay Inslee today declared a state of emergency for all Washington counties that experienced wind, extreme rainfall and flood damage from the severe storm conditions that started on Nov. 14.

If home of business owners have damages from the recent winter weather, state officials say it is imperative that they file a report with the Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management. The number to call is 360-307-5873.  Hours of operation will begin on Nov. 24 from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. After hours, callers are to leave a voice message with contact information.

To qualify for low-interest Small Business Administration (SBA) Loan assistance, there must be at least 25 primary residences that have uninsured losses of 40 percent or more of the estimated fair replacement value. Preliminary reports will determine if we qualify for assistance.

In addition to reporting damages, officials say to call your insurance agent to check on your coverage. Have the following information on hand:

• Name and address of the affected property.
• A description of damage, even if it insured.
• A personal estimate of losses that will be uninsured.
• An estimate of the fair market value of the damaged home or business.
• Keep records of all clean-up and repair costs and, if possible, document with photographs.

Should you need assistance with housing, food and other basics, notify the American Red Cross chapter  at 360-377-3761.

For Business Owner only:  Small business owners should consider physical and economic damages. The State of Washington must certify that at least five small businesses in a disaster area have suffered substantial economic injury and need financial assistance not otherwise available to qualify.