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U.S. Department of Homeland Security will help those affected by Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico. | NASA/Unsplash

Department of Homeland Security: 'Sites that provide emergency response and relief are considered protected areas'

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The Department of Homeland Security released a statement regarding the impact of Hurricane Fiona on Puerto Rico.

According to the Sept. 20 news release, the agency is collaborating with local, state and federal non-governmental partners to assist the areas impacted by Hurricane Fiona in Puerto Rico.

"In light of these circumstances, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and U.S. Customs and Border Protection remind the public that sites that provide emergency response and relief are considered protected areas," DHS officials said in the news release.

According to the release, it is possible ICE and CBP with help with search and rescue, air traffic de-confliction and public safety efforts. It was noted ICE and CBP will not conduct immigration enforcement actions along evacuation routes, shelter areas, registration sites for disaster-related assistance, areas of family reunification or where emergency supplies are distributed, to the fullest extent possible.

"ICE and CBP provide emergency assistance to individuals regardless of their immigration status," DHS officials said, according to the news release. "DHS officials do not and will not pose as individuals providing emergency-related information as part of any enforcement activities."

DHS commits to ensuring anyone who seeks shelter, aid or other assistance due to Hurricane Fiona can do so regardless of their immigration status, the release reported.

According to the release, DHS does not discriminate based on race, gender, gender identity, religion, national origin or political affiliations and stays compliant with set laws and policies.

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