- Stay tuned to local radio for information.
- Help injured or trapped persons.
- Give first aid where appropriate.
- Do not move seriously injured persons unless
they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help.
- Return home only after authorities advise
that it is safe to do so.
- Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report
them immediately to the power company, police, or fire department.
- Enter your home with caution.
- Beware of snakes, insects, and animals driven
to higher ground by flood water.
- Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry
your home.
- Check refrigerated foods for spoilage.
- Take pictures of the damage, both to the house
and its contents and for insurance claims.
- Drive only if absolutely necessary and avoid
flooded roads and washed-out bridges.
- Use telephone only for emergency calls.
Inspecting Utilities In A Damaged Home
- 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's home. If you
turn off the gas for any reason, it must be turned back on
by a professional.
- 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.
- 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.
To help prepare for a hurricane - see our Preparing for a Hurricane page.
