After the Storm

Getting Back Home

    Stay tuned to local news organizations for important announcements, bulletins, and instructions.

    You may not have immediate access to your home. Roads could be blocked, power lines could be down, and people may be trapped and in need of assistance.

    Make sure that you have current identification. You may have to pass through identification checkpoints before being allowed to your home/neighborhood.

Driving

    Avoid driving, as roads may be blocked. Avoid sight-seeing, or entering a storm ravaged area unnecessarily. You could be mistaken for a looter.

    If driving cannot be avoided, do not attempt to drive through floodwaters. Remember the slogan, Turn Around Don't Drown, as there could be unseen dangers, such as downed power lines, debris or a washed out roadway.

    Avoid downed power lines, even if they look harmless. Avoid metal fences and other metal objects near downed lines.

Power Outages

    DO NOT use matches in a storm ravaged area until all gas lines are checked for leaks. (Keep flashlights and plenty of batteries at hand.)

    Avoid turning the power on your home if there is flooding present. Have a professional conduct a thorough inspection first.

    When using a generator, make sure to operate it outdoors and away from openings in the home, including air-conditioning units.

    Telephone lines will likely be busy in the area; use a phone only for emergencies.

Clean-Up

    Consider having professionals/licensed contractors inspect your home for damage and help in repairs. This includes electricians, as well as professionals to inspect gas lines, remove uprooted trees, and check plumbing. Downed or damaged trees can contain power lines that pose an electrocution threat.

    Use a camera or camcorder to record thoroughly any damage done to your home, before any repairs are attempted.

    In certain areas, flooding rains that accompany a storm can create pest problems. Be aware of potential pest problems in your area, such as mice, rats, insects or snakes that may have" come with the storm".

Food and Water

    Flooding brings with it the risk of waterborne bacterial contaminations. You should assume that is not safe and use properly stored water, or boil your tap water.

    Do not eat any persiable food that has not been refrigerated.

    Telephone lines will likely be busy in the area; use a phone only for emergencies.

Clean-Up

    Consider having professionals/ licensed contractors inspect your home for damage and help in repairs. This includes electricians, as well as professionals to inspect gas lines,