Even if the storm has passed, the danger has not. Follow this safety advice to keep your loved ones safe after the storm.
Stay away from the floodwaters
- Always pay attention to flood warnings.
- Driving in flooded places is dangerous because cars and other vehicles cannot protect you from floodwaters. In moving water, they can be swept away or stall.
- Wear a life jacket if you must be in or near floodwater, especially if the water level is rising.
- If you’ve been in floodwater, wash your hands with soap and water. Use alcohol-based wipes or sanitizer if you don’t have soap or water. Many contaminants, including pathogens, harmful chemicals, human and livestock waste, wild or stray animals, downed electrical lines, and other toxins that might make you sick, can be found in floodwater.
A wet electrical device should never be used
- If the device is still plugged in, turn off the power at the main breaker in your home. Before utilizing the gadget, have it checked by an electrician.
Use flashlights instead of candles if the power goes out
- If you must use candles, keep them away from any flammable materials. Stay close to lit candles at all times.
- Make sure you have a fire extinguisher available and that everyone in your family knows how to use it.
Carbon monoxide poisoning can be avoided
Carbon monoxide is produced by fuel-burning machinery (CO). Generators, pressure washers, charcoal barbecues, and camp stoves are examples of such equipment. Carbon monoxide cannot be smelled or seen, but it can cause illness and death if it builds up in your house or business.
- Inside your home, cellar, or garage, never use portable gasoline or coal-burning equipment, or camp stoves. It should be kept outside, at least 20 feet away from any window, door, or vent.
- When using a generator or anything else that burns fuel, utilize a battery-operated or battery-backed CO detector.
- If your CO detector starts beeping, get out of the house as soon as possible and phone 911.
Keep a safe distance from power lines
- Keep an eye out for any fallen power wires that may be strewn over the sky.
- Keep an eye out for downed electrical wires. To report them, call the electric company.
