Flood dangers do not end when the water begins to recede. Listen to radio or television and don't return home until authorities indicate it is safe to do so.
- Help neighbors who may require special assistance.
- Inspect foundations for cracks or other damage.
- Stay out of buildings surrounded by flood waters. When entering buildings, use extreme caution.
- Wear sturdy shoes and use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights no open flames when examining buildings.
- Examine walls, floors, doors and windows to make sure that the building is not in danger of collapsing.
- Watch out for animals, especially poisonous snakes, that may have come into your home with the flood waters.
- Watch for loose plaster and ceilings that could fall.
- Take pictures of the damage both to the house and its contents for insurance claims.
- Look for fire hazards:
- Broken or leaking gas lines.
- Flooded electrical circuits.
- Submerged furnaces or electrical appliances.
- Flammable or explosive materials from upstream.
- Pump out flooded basements gradually to avoid structural damage.
- Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and leaching systems as soon as possible.
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