The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has issued a statement regarding safety and enforcement measures during Tropical Storm Helene. During emergency events, DHS collaborates with federal, state, local, and non-governmental partners to support affected communities.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) emphasize that emergency response sites are protected areas. ICE and CBP generally do not conduct immigration enforcement activities at these locations, which include evacuation routes, shelters, sites distributing emergency supplies or food, registration sites for disaster assistance, or family reunification centers.

ICE and CBP may assist in search and rescue operations, air traffic de-confliction, and public safety missions upon request from FEMA or local authorities. They provide emergency assistance to individuals regardless of immigration status. DHS officials will not impersonate emergency personnel as part of any enforcement actions.

"DHS is committed to ensuring that every individual who seeks shelter, aid, or other assistance as a result of a natural disaster or emergency event is able to do so regardless of their immigration status," the statement reads.

DHS affirms its mission is carried out without discrimination based on race, religion, gender, sexual orientation or gender identity, ethnicity, disability or political associations. This commitment aligns with legal and policy requirements.

For those wishing to file a complaint with the DHS Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties on these matters can visit the "Make a Civil Rights Complaint" page for more information.