Residents in 17 Orleans Parish Zips May Return Home to Inspect Damage

Infrastructure is in place for the residents of 10 zip codes in the city of New Orleans to return to their homes and remain there according to New Orleans city officials. Residents in seven other zip codes may return to their homes for a dawn-to-dusk “look and leave.” These citizens may return each day for further inspection or repair but must not spend the night.

The “look and stay” zip codes include 70112, 70113, 70114,70115,70116,70118, 70119, 70125, 70130 and 70131.

“Look and leave” zip codes are 70117, 70122, 70124, 70126, 70127, 70128 and 70129.

Everyone is encouraged to get a tetanus shot before returning to the city. If residents come in contact with dirt or water they are advised to wash using antibacterial soap and bottled water as soon as possible. There is a limited amount of gasoline available in the city. For explanation of services available, call 1-504-658-2299 or 1-877-286-6431. The City Web site, www.cityofno.com, also contains daily updates.

Residents of Orleans Parish may decide to use the free one-way tickets being offered by FEMA to return to their homes to stay if they are in the designated zip codes. No further travel tickets will be issued after Dec. 31.

Hurricanes Katrina and Rita evacuees and their dependents living in Texas shelters, hotels and motels, who wish to relocate, have until Dec. 31 to take advantage of free one-way airplane, train or bus tickets. Applicants may apply for the program by calling FEMA’s toll-free number at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362) or TTY 1-800-462-7585 for the hearing- and speech-impaired. Travel is restricted to the lower 48 states.

The purpose of the program is to help individuals, whose homes are unlivable, reunite with family members and move to more suitable housing.