The Cotton County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) held its quarterly meeting on August 22, 2025, featuring a special presentation by Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma. The session focused on equipping residents with practical tools and resources to better prepare for and recover from disasters.
Key Topics Covered
• Disaster Insurance Claim Tips – avoiding common pitfalls and ensuring faster processing
• Disaster Legal Checklist – identifying common legal issues and steps residents can take before and after a disaster.
• What FEMA Can Do After a Disaster – understanding available federal assistance.
• Preventing FEMA Recoupment – learning what recoupment means and how to reduce the risk.
• Disaster Unemployment Assistance – resources for individuals who lose employment due to disaster impacts.
• Hiring Contractors After a Disaster – questions to ask and how to protect against fraud.
• Agricultural Disaster Assistance – programs supporting Tarmers and ranchers.
• Renters’ Rights After a Disaster – ensuring tenants are treated fairly during recovery.
• Replacing Important Documents – how to recover lost or damaged records such as IDs, insurance papers, and property deeds.
“These tips are a vital part of disaster recovery,” said Lori Hedges, Director of Cotton County Emergency Management. “Having this information ahead of time helps families, renters, and farmers avoid setbacks and begin rebuilding more quickly.”
About the Cotton County LEPC
The Cotton County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) works to improve emergency preparedness and response throughout the county by coordinating with community partners, first responders, and residents. Quarterly meetings provide opportunities to share resources, address risks, and strengthen resilience.
