Returning Home

Returning home can be both physically and mentally challenging. Above all, use caution:

• Keep a battery-powered radio with you so you can listen for emergency updates and news reports.
• Use a battery-powered flashlight to inspect a damaged home.
  Note: The flashlight should be turned on outside before entering - the battery may produce a spark that could ignite leaking gas, if present.
• Watch out for animals, especially poisonous snakes. Use a stick to poke through debris.
• Be wary of wildlife and other animals
• Use the phone only to report life-threatening emergencies.
• Stay off the streets. If you must go out, watch for fallen objects; downed electrical wires; and weakened walls, bridges, roads, and sidewalks.

Before you enter your home:

• Walk carefully around the outside and check for loose power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage.
• If you have any doubts about safety, have your residence inspected by a qualified building inspector or structural engineer before entering.

Do not enter if:

• You smell gas.
• Floodwaters remain around the building.
• Your home was damaged by fire and the authorities have not declared it safe.

When you go inside your home:

• Enter carefully and check for damage. Be aware of loose boards and slippery floors.
• If you smell gas or hear a hissing or blowing sound, leave immediately. Turn off the main gas valve from the outside and call the gas company.
• If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, check the electrical system. If possible, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker.
• If you see roof, foundation, and chimney cracks or if it looks like the building may collapse, leave immediately.

Visit www.fema.gov or check out the Local Resource Section for a list of rebuilding resources.

• If appliances are wet, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. Then, unplug appliances and let them dry out.
• If pipes are damaged, turn off the main water valve. Check with local authorities before using any water. Pump out wells and have the water tested by authorities.
• Throw out all food and other supplies that you suspect may have become contaminated or come in contact with floodwater.
• If your basement has flooded, pump it out gradually (about one third of the water per day) to avoid damage.
• When opening cabinets, be alert for objects that may fall.
• Clean up household chemical spills. Disinfect all salvageable items that may have been contaminated by raw sewage, bacteria, or chemicals.
• Call your insurance agent. Take pictures of damages. Keep good records of repair and cleaning costs.