(Columbus)--Department of Commerce Director Donna Owens and State Fire Marshal James McNamee are spending Monday in the flood-damaged areas of Clermont and Brown Counties. The purpose is to offer assistance to local officials in completing building inspections, to monitor the progress of inspections and to assess the status of local volunteer fire departments.

"Governor Voinovich has asked us to provide complete cooperation with local officials in expediting the safe return of citizens to their homes and businesses," said Owens. "The Department of Commerce will make every effort to conduct fast, yet thorough inspections."

Over the weekend, the Department of Commerce established inspection teams to assist local building officials in conducting structural, electrical and plumbing inspections for residents and businesses. The teams are comprised of 65 certified building inspectors donated by the state and other certified building departments across the state. Residents and businesses wishing to schedule the free inspection should contact 1-800-523-3581 between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. daily. If possible, requests for inspections should be made prior to the scheduled day for the county. Residents of Hamilton and Clermont should contact their local building departments directly.

Adams and Brown Ross, Pike and Scioto

Hocking, Vinton, Jackson, Lawrence and Gallia Athens, Meigs, Washington and Monroe

Director Owens and Marshal McNamee will also visit volunteer fire departments to assess any special needs they might have. Each year the Fire Marshal awards $700,000 in grants to local fire departments, and the Marshal has indicated that the recent flooding may be a consideration in the awarding of this year's grants.

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