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StormReady
After a Flood
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If food or medicine has come in contact with flood waters, throw it out.
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Stay out of buildings if flood waters remain around the building.
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When entering buildings after a flood use extreme caution.
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Wear sturdy shoes and use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights when
examining buildings.
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Examine walls, floors, doors and windows to make sure that the building is not
in danger of collapse.
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Watch out for animals, like snakes, that may have come into your home with
flood waters.
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Take pictures of the damage - both of the house and its contents for insurance
claims.
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Look for:
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Fire hazards.
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Broken or leaking gas lines.
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Flooded electrical circuits.
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Submerged furnaces or electrical appliances.
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Flammable or explosive materials coming from upstream
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Report potential emergencies to authorities.
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It's best to have a professional pump out a basement - to avoid further
structural damage. FEMA recommends pumping out about one-third of the water per
day.
From Talking about Disaster: Guide for Standard Messages. Produced by the National Disaster Education Coalition, Washington, D.C., 1999.
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Use flashlights. Do not light matches or turn on electrical switches, if you
suspect damage.
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Sniff for gas leaks, starting at the water heater. If you smell gas or suspect
a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open windows, and get everyone outside
quickly.
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Shut off any other damaged utilities. (You will need a professional to turn gas
back on.).
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Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches, gasoline, and other flammable liquids
immediately.
From Talking about Disaster: Guide for Standard Messages. Produced by the National Disaster Education Coalition, Washington, D.C., 1999.
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