\u2022 Stay tuned to local radio for information.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Help injured or trapped persons. Give first aid where appropriate. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Return home only after authorities advise that it is safe to do so.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company, police, or fire department. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Enter your home with caution. Beware of snakes, insects, and animals driven to higher ground by flood water. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Check refrigerated foods for spoilage. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Take pictures of the damage, both to the house and its contents for insurance claims. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Drive only if absolutely necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Use telephone only for emergency calls.<\/p>\n
Inspecting utilities in a damaged home <\/p>\n
\u2022 Check for gas leaks–If you smell gas or hear blowing or hissing noise, open a window and quickly leave the building. Turn off the gas at the outside main valve if you can and call the gas company from a neighbor\u2019s home. If you turn off the gas for any reason, it must be turned back on by a professional.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Look for electrical system damage–If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If you have to step in water to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker, call an electrician first for advice.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Check for sewage and water lines damage–If you suspect sewage lines are damaged avoid using the toilets and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid the water from the tap. You can obtain safe water by melting ice cubes.<\/p>\n
In case of flooding<\/p>\n
Your home has been flooded. Although floodwaters may be down in some areas, many dangers still exist. Here are some things to remember in the days ahead.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Roads may still be closed because they have been damaged or are covered by water. Barricades have been placed for your protection. If you come upon a barricade or a flooded road, go another way.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Keep listening to the radio for news about what to do, where to go, or places to avoid. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.<\/p>\n
If you must walk or drive in areas that have been flooded — <\/p>\n
\u2022 Stay on firm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Flooding may have caused familiar places to change. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways. Flood debris may hide animals and broken bottles, and it\u2019s also slippery. Avoid walking or driving through it.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Play it safe. Additional flooding or flash floods can occur. Listen for local warnings andinformation. If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, get out immediately and climb to higher ground.<\/p>\n
Staying healthy<\/p>\n
\u2022 A flood can cause emotional and physical stress. You need to look after yourself and your family as you focus on cleanup and repair. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Rest often and eat well. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Keep a manageable schedule. Make a list and do jobs one at a time.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Discuss your concerns with others and seek help. Contact Red Cross for information on emotional support available in your area.<\/p>\n
Cleaning up and repairing your home <\/p>\n
\u2022 Turn off the electricity at the main breaker or fuse box, even if the power is off in your community. That way, you can decide when your home is dry enough to turn it back on.<\/p>\n
Getting help <\/p>\n
\u2022 The American Red Cross can help you by providing you with a voucher to purchase new clothing, groceries, essential medications, bedding, essential furnishings, and other items to meet emergency needs. Listen to the radio to find out where to go for assistance, or look up American Red Cross in the phone book and call.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Red Cross can provide you with a cleanup kit: mop, broom, bucket, and cleaning supplies. <\/p>\n
\u2022 Contact your insurance agent to discuss claims.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Listen to your radio for information on assistance that may be provided by the state or federal government or other organizations.<\/p>\n
\u2022 If you hire cleanup or repair contractors, be sure they are qualified to do the job. Be wary of people who drive through neighborhoods offering help in cleaning up or repairing your home. Check references. (Source: FEMA)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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