FEMA: Before a Hurricane http://www.fema.gov/hazard/hurricane/hu_before.shtm Page 1 of 1 5/25/2011 Before a Hurricane To prepare for a hurricane, you should take the following measures: Make plans to secure your property. Permanent storm shutters offer the best protection for windows. A second option is to board up windows with 5/8 marine plywood, cut to fit and ready to install. Tape does not prevent windows from breaking. Install straps or additional clips to securely fasten your roof to the frame structure. This will reduce roof damage. Be sure trees and shrubs around your home are well trimmed. Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts. Determine how and where to secure your boat. Consider building a safe room. "How To" guides for protecting your property from flooding & high winds.
HURRICANE EVACUATION KIT
Foods (canned goods & nonperishable foods) that do not need cooking Drinking water in nonbreakable containers (at least 2qts. Per person/ day) Special dietary food if required Identification, cash, valuable papers, insurance policies & photos in a waterproof container Battery-operated radio with an all weather radio Extra batteries for radio and flashlights Personal hygiene items, such as: soap, deodorant, shampoo, toothbrush, toothpaste, aspirin, antacid, diapers, washcloth, female products, towels, etc. Utensils, such as: manual can opener, disposable plates, cups, forks, knives, spoons, napkins, etc. Personal aids, such as: eyeglasses, hearing aids, and batteries, prosthetic devices, etc. Books, magazines, cards, toys & games Infant care items, such as: formula, food, wipes and disposable diapers Flashlight and extra batteries First aid kit, which includes: Prescription medications, bet-adine solution, gauze bandages, adhesive tape, sterile pads, band aids, triangular bandages, safety scissors, nonprescription medication, sun screen, insect repellent, etc. Sleeping bag or blanket, sheet & pillow Change of clothing, plus an extra pair of shoes Carrying container for items Remember - alcoholic beverages, pets and weapons are prohibited within emergency public shelters
FEMA: Evacuation Plans http://www.fema.gov/plan/prepare/evacuation.shtm Page 1 of 1 5/25/2011 Evacuation Plans When community evacuations become necessary, local officials provide information to the public through the media. In some circumstances, other warning methods, such as sirens or telephone calls, also are used. Additionally, there may be circumstances under which you and your family feel threatened or endangered and you need to leave your home, school, or workplace to avoid these situations. The amount of time you have to leave will depend on the hazard. If the event is a weather condition, such as a hurricane that can be monitored, you might have a day or two to get ready. However, many disasters allow no time for people to gather even the most basic necessities, which is why planning ahead is essential. Evacuation: More Common than You Realize Evacuations are more common than many people realize. Hundreds of times each year, transportation and industrial accidents release harmful substances, forcing thousands of people to leave their homes. Fires and floods cause evacuations even more frequently. Almost every year, people along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts evacuate in the face of approaching hurricanes. Ask local authorities about emergency evacuation routes and see if maps may are available with evacuation routes marked. Evacuation Guidelines Always: Keep a full tank of gas in your car if an evacuation seems likely. Gas stations may be closed during emergencies and unable to pump gas during power outages. Plan to take one car per family to reduce congestion and delay. Make transportation arrangements with friends or your local government if you do not own a car. Listen to a battery-powered radio and follow local evacuation instructions. If time permits: Gather your disaster supplies kit. Wear sturdy shoes and clothing that provides some protection, such as long pants, long-sleeved shirts, and a cap. Secure your home: Close and lock doors and windows. Unplug electrical equipment, such as radios and televisions, and small appliances, such as toasters and microwaves. Leave freezers and refrigerators plugged in unless there is a risk of flooding. Gather your family and go if you are in- structed to evacuate immediately. Let others know where you are going. Leave early enough to avoid being trapped by severe weather. Follow recommended evacuation routes. Do not take shortcuts; they may be blocked. Be alert for washed-out roads and bridges. Do not drive into flooded areas. Stay away from downed power lines.
FEMA: During a Hurricane http://www.fema.gov/hazard/hurricane/hu_during.shtm Page 1 of 1 5/25/2011 During a Hurricane If a hurricane is likely in your area, you should: Listen to the radio or TV for information. Secure your home, close storm shutters, and secure outdoor objects or bring them indoors. Turn off utilities if instructed to do so. Otherwise, turn the refrigerator thermostat to its coldest setting and keep its doors closed. Turn off propane tanks. Avoid using the phone, except for serious emergencies. Moor your boat if time permits. Ensure a supply of water for sanitary purposes such as cleaning and flushing toilets. Fill the bathtub and other large containers with water. You should evacuate under the following conditions: If you are directed by local authorities to do so. Be sure to follow their instructions. If you live in a mobile home or temporary structure such shelters are particularly hazardous during hurricanes no matter how well fastened to the ground. If you live in a high-rise building hurricane winds are stronger at higher elevations. If you live on the coast, on a floodplain, near a river, or on an inland waterway. If you feel you are in danger. If you are unable to evacuate, go to your safe room. If you do not have one, follow these guidelines: Stay indoors during the hurricane and away from windows and glass doors. Close all interior doors secure and brace external doors. Keep curtains and blinds closed. Do not be fooled if there is a lull; it could be the eye of the storm - winds will pick up again. Take refuge in a small interior room, closet, or hallway on the lowest level. Lie on the floor under a table or another sturdy object.
This information was developed by the u.s. Department of Homeland Security in consultation with: American Kennel Club, The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, American Veterinary Medical Association, and The Humane Society of the U.S. ~ Ready Prepare. Plan. Stay Informed. AMERICAN KENNEL (LUBoW 11t:AMERlCAN SOCltTYFOR llle PRfVIMlONOf CRlJEllYTO AH lllils Ready Prepare. Plan. StayInformed. / Homeland < Security I www.ready.gov READY-RP-0406-01.
Prepare Get a Pet Emer enc Su Just as you do with your family's emergencysupply kit, think first aboutthe basicsfor survival, particularly food and water. Consider two kits. In one, put everything you and your pets will need to stay where you are. The other should be a lightweight, smallerversionyou can take with you if you and your pets haveto get away. Plus, be sure to review your kits regularly to ensure that their contents, especially foods and medicines, are fresh. Food. Keep at least three days of food in an airtight, waterproof container. Water. Store at least three days of water specifically for your pets in addition to water you need for yourself and your family. Medicines and medical records. Keep an extra supply of medicines your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container. First aid kit. Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet's emergency medical needs. Most kits should include colton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Include a pet first aid reference book. Collar with 10 tag, harness or leash. Your pet should wear a collar with its rabiestag and identification at all times. Include a backup leash, collar and 10 tag in your pet's emergency supply kit. In addition, place copies of your pet's registration information, adoption papers, vaccination documents and medical records in a clean plastic bag or waterproof container and also add them to your kit. You should also consider talking with your veterinarianabout permanent identification such as microchipping, and enrolling your pet in a recovery database. Crate or other pet carrier. If you need to evacuate in an emergency situation take your pets and animals with you provided that it is practical to do so. In many cases, your ability to do so will be aided by having a sturdy, safe, comfortable crate or carrier ready for transporting your pet. The carrier should be large enough for your pet to stand, turn around and lie down. Sanitation. Include pet litter and litter box if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastictrash bags and household chlorine bleach to providefor your pet'ssanitation needs. Youcan use bleach as a disinfectant (dilute nine parts water to one part bleach), or in an emergency you can also use it to purify water. Use 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water. Do notusescentedor colorsafe bleaches, or those with added cleaners. A picture of you and your pet together. If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in identifying your pet. Include detailed information about species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics. Familiar items. Put favorite toys, treats or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet. Plan What You Will Do in an Em er enc. Be prepared to assess the situation. Use whatever you have on hand to take care of yourself and ensure your pet's safety during an emergency. Depending on your circumstances and the nature of the emergency the first important decision is whether you stay put or get away. You should understand and plan for both possibilities. Use common sense and the information you are learning here to determine if there is immediate danger. In any emergency, local authorities mayor may not immediately be able to provide information on what is happening and what you should do. However, watch TV, listen to the radio or check the Internet for instructions. If you're specifically told to evacuate, shelter-in-place or seek medical treatment, do so immediately. Create a plan to get away. Plan how you will assemble your pets and anticipate where you will go. If you must evacuate, take yo ur pets with you if practical. If you go to a public shelter, keep in mind your animals may not be allowed inside. Secure appropriate lodging in advance depending on the number and type of animals in your care. Consider family or friends willing to take in you and your pets in an emergency. Other options may include: a hotel or motel that takes pets or a boarding facility, such as a kennel or veterinary hosp ital that is near an evacuation facility or your family 's meeting place. Find out before an emergency happens if any of these facilities in your area might be viable options for you and your pets. Develop a buddy system. Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. Talk with your pet care buddy about your evacuation plans and show them where you keep your pet's emergency supply kit. Also designate specific locations, one in your immed iate neighborhood and another farther away, where you will meet in an emergency. Talk to your pet's veterinarian about emergency planning. Discuss the types of things that you should include in your pet's emergency first aid kit. Get the names of vets or veterinary hospitals in other cities where you might need to seek temporary shelter. You should _---","!A also consider talking with your veterinarian about permanent identification such as microchipping, and enrolling your pet in a recovery database. If your pet is microchipped, keeping your emergency contact information up to date and listed with a reliable recovery database is essential to your being reunited with your pet. Gather contact information for emergency animal treatment. Make a list of contact information and addresses of area animal control agencies includ ing the Humane Society or SPCA, and emergency veterinary hospitals. Keep one copy of these phone numbers w ith you and one in your pet's emergency supply kit. Obtain "Pets Inside" stickers and place them on you r doors or windows, including information on the number and types of pets in your home to alert firefighters and rescue workers. Consider putting a phone number on the sticker where you could be reached in an emergency. And, if time permits, remember to write the words "Evacuated with Pets" across the stickers, should you flee with your pets. 3- Stay Informed Know About Types of Emergencies. Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as assembling an emergency supply kit for yourself, your family and your pets, is the same regardless of the type of emergency. However, it's important to stay informed about what might happen and know what types of emergencies are likely to affect your region as well as emergency plans that have been establ ished by your state and local government. For more information about how to prepare, visit www.ready.gov or call1-800-be-ready. Be prepared to adapt this information to your personal circumstances and make every effort to follow instructions received from authorities on the scene. With these simple preparations, you can be ready for the unexpected. Those who take the time to prepare themselves and their pets will likely encounter less difficulty, stress and worry. Take the time now to get yourself and your pet ready. Preparing for Your Pets Makes Sense. Get Ready Now.
Press Office U.S. Department of Homeland Security 500 C Street, SW Washington, DC 20472 Fact Sheet 1. Get a Kit of Pet Emergency Supplies. Just as you do with your family s emergency supply kit, think first about the basics for survival, particularly food and water. Food: Keep at least three days of food in an airtight, waterproof container. Water: Store at least three days of water specifically for your pets, in addition to water you need for yourself and your family. Medicines and medical records: Keep an extra supply of medicines your pet takes on a regular basis in a waterproof container. First aid kit: Talk to your veterinarian about what is most appropriate for your pet s emergency medical needs. Most kits should include cotton bandage rolls, bandage tape and scissors; antibiotic ointment; flea and tick prevention; latex gloves, isopropyl alcohol and saline solution. Include a pet first aid reference book. Collar with ID tag, harness or leash: Your pet should wear a collar with its rabies tag and identification at all times. Include a backup leash, collar and ID tag in your pet s emergency supply kit. Important documents: Place copies of your pet s registration information, adoption papers, vaccination documents and medical records in a clean plastic bag or waterproof container and also add them to your kit. Crate or other pet carrier: If you need to evacuate in an emergency situation take your pets and animals with you, provided that it is practical to do so. Sanitation: Include pet litter and litter box if appropriate, newspapers, paper towels, plastic trash bags and household chlorine bleach to provide for your pet s sanitation needs. You can use bleach as a disinfectant (dilute nine parts water to one part bleach), or in an emergency you can also use it to purify water. Use 8 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water, stir well and let it stand for 30 minutes before use. Do not use scented or color safe bleaches or those with added cleaners. A picture of you and your pet together: If you become separated from your pet during an emergency, a picture of you and your pet together will help you document ownership and allow others to assist you in identifying your pet. Include detailed information about species, breed, age, sex, color and distinguishing characteristics. Familiar items: Put favorite toys, treats or bedding in your kit. Familiar items can help reduce stress for your pet. Consider two kits. In one, put everything your pets will need to stay where you are and make it on your own. The other should be a lightweight, smaller version you can take with you if you and your pets have to get away.
2. Make a Plan for what you will do in an emergency. Plan in advance what you will do in an emergency. Be prepared to assess the situation. Use common sense and whatever you have on hand to take care of yourself and ensure your pet s safety during an emergency. Evacuate. Plan how you will assemble your pets and anticipate where you will go. If you must evacuate, take your pets with you, if practical. If you go to a public shelter, keep in mind your pets may not be allowed inside. Secure appropriate lodging in advance depending on the number and type of animals in your care. Consider family or friends outside your immediate area who would be willing to take in you and your pets in an emergency. Other options may include: a hotel or motel that takes pets or some sort of boarding facility, such as a kennel or veterinary hospital that is near an evacuation facility or your family s meeting place. Find out before an emergency happens if any of these facilities in your area might be viable options for you and your pets. Develop a buddy system. Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. Talk with your pet care buddy about your evacuation plans and show them where you keep your pet s emergency supply kit. Also designate specific locations, one in your immediate neighborhood and other farther away, where you will meet in an emergency. Talk to your pet s veterinarian about emergency planning. Discuss the types of things you should include in your pet s emergency first aid kit. Get the names of vets or veterinary hospitals in other cities where you might need to seek temporary shelter. Also talk with your veterinarian about microchipping. If you and your pet are separated, this permanent implant for your pet and corresponding enrollment in a recovery database can help a veterinarian or shelter identify your animal. If your pet is microchipped, keeping your emergency contact information up to date and listed with a reliable recovery database is essential to you and your pet being reunited. Gather contact information for emergency animal treatment. Make a list of contact information and addresses of area animal control agencies including the Humane Society or ASPCA and emergency veterinary hospitals. Keep one copy of these phone numbers with you, and one in your pet s emergency supply kit. Obtain Pets Inside stickers and place them on your doors or windows, including information on the number and types of pets in your home to alert firefighters and rescue workers. Consider putting a phone number on the sticker where you could be reached in an emergency. And, if time permits, remember to write the words Evacuated with Pets across the stickers, should you evacuate your home with your pets. 3. Be Prepared for what might happen. Some of the things you can do to prepare for the unexpected, such as assembling an emergency supply kit for yourself, your family and your pets, is the same regardless of the type of emergency. However, it s important to say informed about what might happen and know what types of emergencies are likely to affect your region. Be prepared to adapt this information to your personal circumstances and make every effort to follow instructions received from authorities on the scene. With these simple preparations, you can be ready for the unexpected. Those who take the time to prepare themselves and their pets will likely encounter less difficulty, stress and worry. Take the time now to get yourself and your pet ready. Visit www.ready.gov and m.fema.gov from your mobile device for more information.
ist HURRICANE AWARENESS Nancy McCombs FEMA REGION IV rt Graphic A Comments Action Guidelines for Senior Citizens L-212-June 2000
Hurricane Season is June 1 - November 30 notes The Following is a checklist of actions you can take before, during, and after a hurricane strikes. Check this list each spring to be better prepared for the hurricane season. Stock Your home Before the Season Begins It s a good idea to stock a supply of food, water, and supplies for an emergency (Keep at least a weeks worth on hand). Any season can bring disaster. Winter storms or summer heat waves could effect your ability to get to the store for food or medication. Even a simple water main break could leave you without vital water for a few days. Water. Each person s need for drinking water varies, depending on age, physical condition, and time of year. The average person needs at least two quarts of water or other liquid to drink per day, but more would be better. Also keep a couple of gallons on hand for sanitary purposes. Store water in plastic, airtight containers and replace every two months to be sure it is pure. Food. Supplies should include enough nonperishable, high-energy foods to feed you and your family for up to seven days. You may be stranded in your home for several days or local stores may run low on supplies. Also, if you go to a public shelter, it is helpful to take as much non-perishable food as you can carry. 1 10
notes A suggested supply of foods for emergencies includes: Whole dry milk* Canned fruit juices Canned meats and fish, like vienna sausage, meat spread, or tuna Meat substitutes, like beans, bread and crackers* Peanut butter Dried fruits Dry cereals* Granola bars or cookies* Any special dietary needs * Place paper or waxed packages in a water-tight container, such as a larger plastic bag. This will keep them dry and make them easier to carry. Supplies and Equipment. Keep the following items in one place so you can get to them easily: A battery-operated radio (with extra batteries) Having a weather band A flashlight (with extra batteries) Blankets or sleeping bags Paper plates and utensils, including a bottle and can opener Toilet articles and sanitary items Medicines. It is very important to keep an adequate supply of any medicines you take (at least two weeks worth).. If you are stranded in your home, or requested to go to a public shelter, you may not be able to get more medication easily. If possible, you should also keep an extra pair of glasses on hand for emergencies or hearing aid batteries if necessary Even though you have emergency supplies, don t make the mistake of trying to ride out a hurricane at home. EVACUATE if local authorities tell you to do so, especially if you live in low-lying areas which could be easily flooded. Leave early before roads become jammed or flooded and you can t get out. 9 2
Arrange for a ride with nearby neighbors or relatives if you do not have a car. You can also call a local senior citizens group, your church, or your community emergency management office for help in arranging a ride. notes Plan for Evacuation When you evacuate, you may wish to take some of the supplies listed previously with you, but don t take more than you can carry. If you are going to a public shelter, the most important items to take are your medication, a blanket, the portable radio, an extra change of clothing and perhaps a small supply of packaged quick-energy foods like raisins and granola bars. Plan ahead to make evacuation easier: Keep your gas tank as full as possible during hurricane season. Fuel may be difficult to get. Team up with a partner, a neighbor or relative living nearby. Plan your evacuation together. By sharing supplies and a ride, each can help the other. If possible, make plans in advance to stay with friends or relatives living inland on higher ground if you need to evacuate. Know what your destination will be in advance. Learn the recommended evacuation route from your home to safer, higher ground. Local broadcasts will tell you where to go during an evacuation, but you can learn the safest route ahead of time by watching for a pre-season distribution of a local evacuation plan or by calling your local emergency management office. 3 8
Snakes, animals, and insects instinctively travel inland to higher ground to escape approaching flood waters. Expect them and be prepared to protect yourself. Careful planning and quick response to a hurricane threat will reduce damage to your home and could save your life. Most importantly, you must EVACUATE if you are told to do so by local officials. Material possessions are replaceable. Your life is not. Take action now to be better prepared for hurricane season. Stay Aware of Weather Conditions Listen to daily weather forecasts during hurricane season. As hurricanes develop, they are monitored closely by the National Weather Service. The Weather Service issues two types of notices about approaching hurricanes: a HURRICANE WATCH and a HURRICANE WARNING. A HURRICANE WATCH means a hurricane may threaten coastal and inland areas, and that hurricane conditions are a real possibility; it does not mean they are imminent. However, you should take preparatory action. When a WATCH is issued for your area, you should: Stay tuned to local stations for the latest weather information. Contact your partner to review your plans. Be sure your car is fueled and ready to go, or contact the person who agreed to give you a ride in an evacuation to re-confirm your arrangements. Gather your emergency supplies, placing them in your car or near the front door if you are riding with someone else. Store away all objects on your lawn or patio which could be picked up and carried away by the wind. Lawn furniture, garbage cans, garden tools, toys, signs, and a number of other harmless items can become deadly missiles in hurricane winds. Gather up important papers in your home such as birth and marriage certificates, wills, insurance policies, deeds, etc. Place them in a water proof container with your non-perishable food supply or in your safe deposit box. 7 4
A HURRICANE WARNING is issued when a hurricane is expected to strike within 24 hours. A hurricane warning may also include an assessment of flood danger in coastal and inland areas, small craft warnings, gale warnings, and recommended emergency procedures. Evacuation WHEN A STORM THREATENS If a hurricane WARNING is issued for your area and an evacuation is ordered, local radio and television stations will announce information on where you should go and the best route to take. Call your partner and make arrangements to leave. Don t panic if you cannot get a ride. In a hurricane evacuation, local emergency services personnel or police usually patrol each street to warn those people who may not have a radio or television. You can stop one of these officers, and they will help you. Leave early! Do not wait, especially in low-lying areas. Roads can flood quickly, leaving you stranded. Before you leave your home: Put shutters and/or plywood on each window and glass doors to keep glass from shattering. Close and lock your windows and glass doors, lowering blinds and closing curtains to keep flying rubble out. If possible, you may want to install shutters over your windows. Fill bathtubs and other clean containers with water for later should water become unavailable. Follow the approved evacuation route from your home to safe higher ground. Do not stay in a mobile home during a hurricane. Even is a mobile home is anchored, there is no guarantee it will withstand the strong winds of a hurricane. DURING THE HURRICANE If you are unable to evacuate before the hurricane hits, stay inside. Do not be fooled by the eye of the hurricane and its temporary period of peaceful weather conditions. The length of time within the eye varies from several minutes to a couple of hours, depending on the size of the storm. The larger and more intense the hurricane, the larger the eye. Stay away from windows and glass doors. You could be struck by flying debris. Continue to listen to your radio or television for hurricane updates and emergency information. AFTER THE HURRICANE Local authorities will announce when it is safe to return to your home. Stay tuned to local stations for current information. When you get home: Look for visible structural damage before you go inside. Watch for loose or dangling electrical power lines and broken sewer, water, or gas lines. Notify local officials immediately if you see any. Make sure all electrical outlets and appliances are dry and free of water before using them. Do not drink from the faucet until officially notified that it is safe from contamination. Use your emergency supply or boil tap water before drinking it. Without electricity, food in your refrigerator could spoil in a few hours. Don t eat it. Food in a freezer could partially thaw, but would be safe to eat for several days. Food should not be re-frozen once it begins to thaw. 5 6
Be RedCrossReady Returning Home After a Hurricane or Flood Preparing to return home after evacuating will keep you safer while inspecting and cleaning up the damage to your home. Before traveling, ensure local officials have declared that it s safe to enter your community and that you have the supplies you will need. Follow the suggestions below for returning to, inspecting and cleaning your home. Items to Take When Returning Home: Government-issued photo ID and proof of address Important phone numbers Bottled water and non-perishable foods First aid kit Cleanser/hand cleaning gel for personal use Hygiene products and toilet paper Insect repellent and sunscreen Long-sleeved shirts, long pants, sturdy waterproof boots and work gloves Flashlight, portable radio and extra batteries Cameras for photos of damage for insurance claims Before returning First inspection Cleaning your home Find out if it is safe to enter your community or neighborhood. Follow the advice of your local authorities. Carry plenty of cash. ATMs may not work and stores may not be able to accept credit or debit cards. Bring supplies such as flashlights, batteries, bottled water and nonperishable foods in case utilities are out. Create back-up communication plans with family and friends in case you are unable to call from affected areas. Plan for delays when traveling. Bring extra food, water, pillows, blankets and other items that will make the trip more comfortable. Keep the fuel tank of your vehicle as full as possible in case gas stations are crowded, out of fuel or closed. Carry a map to help you route around heavy traffic or impassable roads. Find out if local medical facilities are open and if emergency services are functioning again. Do NOT call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number to do this. Understand that recovery takes time. Focus on the positive and have patience. Others will have similar frustrations. If possible, leave children and pets with a relative or friend. If not, keep them away from hazards and floodwater. Beware of snakes, insects and other animals that may be in or around your home. Before entering your home, look outside for damaged power lines, gas lines, foundation cracks and other exterior damage. It may be too dangerous to enter the home. If you smell natural gas or propane, or hear a hissing noise, leave immediately and contact the fire department. If your home was flooded, assume it is contaminated with mold. Mold increases health risks for those with asthma, allergies or other breathing conditions. Open doors and windows. If the house was closed more than 48 hours, let it air it out before staying inside for any length of time. Turn the main electrical power and water systems off until you or a professional can ensure that they are safe. NEVER turn the power on or off, or use an electrical tool or appliance while standing in water. Check the ceiling and floor for signs of sagging. Water may be trapped in the ceiling or floors may be unsafe to walk on. Using Generators Safely When using a portable generator, connect the equipment you want to power directly to the outlets on the generator. Do not connect a portable generator to a home's electrical system. If you are considering getting a generator, get advice from a professional, such as an electrician. Make sure that the generator you purchase is rated for the power that you think you will need. Wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and rubber boots. Be careful when moving furnishings or debris, because they may be waterlogged and heavier. Throw out all food, beverages and medicine exposed to flood waters and mud, including canned goods and containers with food or liquid that have been sealed shut. When in doubt, throw it out. Some cleaning solutions can cause toxic fumes and other hazards if mixed together. If you smell a strong odor or your eyes water from the fumes or mixed chemicals, open a window and get out of your home. Throw out items that absorb water and cannot be cleaned or disinfected (mattresses, carpeting, cosmetics, stuffed animals and baby toys). Remove all drywall and insulation that has been in contact with flood waters. Clean hard surfaces (flooring, countertops and appliances) thoroughly with hot water and soap or a detergent. Return to as many personal and family routines as possible. Caution: Carbon Monoxide Kills Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors. The primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire. Let Your Family Know You re Safe If your community has experienced a flood, or any disaster, register on the American Red Cross Safe and Well Web site available through RedCross.org to let your family and friends know about your welfare. If you don t have Internet access, call 1-866-GET- INFO to register yourself and your family. For more information on disaster and emergency preparedness, visit RedCross.org. Copyright 2009 by the American National Red Cross Stock No. 658571
FACT SHEET Key Facts About Hurricane and Flood Recovery: Protect Your Health and Safety After a Hurricane or Flood Prevent illness from FOOD Identify and throw away food that may not be safe to eat. Throw away food that may have come in contact with flood or storm water. Throw away canned foods that are bulging, opened, or damaged. Throw away food that has an unusual odor, color, or texture. Throw away perishable foods (including meat, poultry, fish, eggs and leftovers) that have been above 40 F for 2 hours or more. Thawed food that contains ice crystals or is 40 F or below can be refrozen or cooked. If cans have come in contact with floodwater or storm water, remove the labels, wash the cans, and dip them in a solution of 1 cup (240 milliliters) of bleach in 5 gallons of water. Relabel the cans with a marker. Store food safely. While the power is out, keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Add block ice or dry ice to your refrigerator if the electricity is expected to be off longer than 4 hours. Wear heavy gloves when handling ice. Prevent illness from WATER Listen to and follow public announcements. Local authorities will tell you if tap water is safe to drink or to use for cooking or bathing. If the water is not safe to use, follow local instructions to use bottled water or to boil or disinfect water for cooking, cleaning, or bathing. Correctly boil or disinfect water. Hold water at a rolling boil for 1 minute to kill bacteria. If you can t boil water, add 1/8 teaspoon (approximately 0.75 ml) of newly purchased, unscented liquid household bleach per gallon of water. Stir the water well, and let it stand for 30 minutes before you use it. You can use water-purifying tablets instead of boiling water or using bleach. For infants, use only pre-prepared canned baby formula. Do not use powdered formulas prepared with treated water. Clean children s toys that have come in contact with water. Use a solution of 1 cup of bleach in 5 gallons of water to clean the toys. Let toys air dry after cleaning. Prevent and treat OTHER ILLNESS and INJURIES Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that is produced by many types of equipment and is poisonous to breathe. Don't use a generator, pressure washer, charcoal grill, camp stove, or other gasoline- or charcoal-burning device inside your home, basement, or garage or near a window, door, or vent. Don't run a car or truck inside a garage attached to your house, even if you leave the door open. Don t heat your house with a gas oven. If your carbon monoxide detector sounds, leave your home immediately and call 911. Seek prompt medical attention if you suspect carbon monoxide poisoning and are feeling dizzy, light-headed, or nauseated. Avoid floodwater and mosquitoes. Follow all warnings about water on roadways. Do not drive vehicles or heavy equipment through water. If you have to work in or near floodwater, wear a life jacket. If you are caught in an area where floodwater is rising, wear a life jacket, or use some other type of flotation device. Prevent mosquito bites by wearing long pants, socks, and long-sleeved shirts and by using insect repellents that contain DEET or Picaridin. More information about these and other recommended repellents September 2, 2008 Page 1 of 2
Key Facts About Hurricane and Flood Recovery (continued from previous page) can be found in the fact sheet Updated Information Regarding Insect Repellents at www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/westnile/repellentupdates.htm. Avoid unstable buildings and structures. Stay away from damaged buildings or structures until they have been examined and certified as safe by a building inspector or other government authority. Leave immediately if you hear shifting or unusual noises that signal that the structure is about to fall. Beware of wild or stray animals. Avoid wild or stray animals. Take appropriate precautions to avoid animal bites and rabies exposure (see www.cdc.gov/rabies/exposure). Call local authorities to handle animals. Get rid of dead animals according to local guidelines. Beware of electrical and fire hazards. NEVER touch a fallen power line. Call the power company to report fallen power lines. Avoid contact with overhead power lines during cleanup and other activities. If electrical circuits and equipment have gotten wet or are in or near water, turn off the power at the main breaker or fuse on the service panel. Do not turn the power back on until electrical equipment has been inspected by a qualified electrician. Do not burn candles near flammable items or leave the candle unattended. If possible, use flashlights or other battery-operated lights instead of candles. Beware of hazardous materials. Wear protective clothing and gear (for example, a respirator if needed) when handling hazardous materials. Wash skin that may have come in contact with hazardous chemicals. Contact local authorities if you are not sure about how to handle or get rid of hazardous materials. Clean up and prevent mold growth. Clean up and dry out the building quickly (within 24 to 48 hours). Open doors and windows. Use fans to dry out the building. To prevent mold growth, clean wet items and surfaces with detergent and water. To remove mold growth, wear rubber gloves, open windows and doors, and clean with a bleach solution of 1 cup of bleach in 1 gallon of water. Throw away porous items (for example, carpet and upholstered furniture) that cannot be dried quickly. Fix any leaks in roofs, walls, or plumbing. Pace yourself and get support. Be alert to physical and emotional exhaustion or strain. Set priorities for cleanup tasks, and pace the work. Try not to work alone. Don t get exhausted. Ask your family members, friends, or professionals for support. If needed, seek professional help. Prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Use teams of two or more people to move bulky objects. Avoid lifting any material that weighs more than 50 pounds (per person). Stay cool. When it s hot, stay in air-conditioned buildings; take breaks in shaded areas or in cool rooms; drink water and nonalcoholic fluids often; wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing; and do outdoor activities during cooler hours. Treat wounds. Clean out all open wounds and cuts with soap and clean water. Apply an antibiotic ointment. Contact a doctor to find out whether more treatment is needed (such as a tetanus shot). If a wound gets red, swells, or drains, seek immediate medical attention. Wash your hands. Use soap and water to wash your hands. If water isn t available, you can use alcoholbased products made for washing hands. Wear protective gear for cleanup work. Wear hard hats, goggles, heavy work gloves, and watertight boots with steel toes and insoles (not just steel shank). Wear earplugs or protective headphones to reduce risk from equipment noise. For more information, visit emergency.cdc.gov/disasters, or call CDC at 800-CDC-INFO (English and Spanish) or 888-232-6348 (TTY). September 2, 2008 Page 2 of 2