Damaged Homes Can Spell Danger 

Release Date: October 6, 2004
Release Number: 1539-172

» More Information on Florida Hurricane Charley and Tropical Storm Bonnie

ORLANDO, Fla. -- Hurricane-stricken Floridians should take extra precautions when returning to flood-damaged homes or businesses to avoid accidents and injuries, state and federal disaster officials warned again today.

Florida’s State Emergency Response Team and the Federal Emergency Management Agency caution that the danger is not past just because the water has receded. Hazards include exposed electrical wires, gas leaks, contaminated floodwater, and weakened buildings. These are not always obvious but can be life-threatening.

Mold in a flooded building can also be dangerous to human health, particularly to people with allergies or respiratory problems.

Officials say hurricane victims also should be aware of potential chemical hazards such as solvents, car batteries and other industrial chemicals. Residents who are unsure what a substance is should get advice from an expert.

FEMA has published a handbook on how to prepare for disasters and what to do afterward. The book, “Are You Ready? A Guide to Citizen Preparedness,” can be read or copied on-line at www.fema.gov/areyouready/

Other Internet sites offer good advice on disaster recovery, including www.redcross.org/services and www.dcnonline.org, a site posted by Florida’s Disaster Contractors Network.

Disaster recovery experts recommend following these tips:

BEFORE ENTERING A BUILDING:

Check the outside of the building: Call the utility company immediately if you find downed power lines or detect gas leaks.

Look for external damage: Examine the foundation for cracks or other damage. Inspect porch roofs and overhangs. If you find damage, have a building inspector check the building before you go in.

Enter carefully: If the door sticks at the top, it could mean the ceiling is ready to cave in. Don’t walk under a sagging ceiling until it has been found safe.

AFTER ENTERING:

Look before you step: Floors and stairs may be covered with debris and very slippery. Watch out for glass, nails and other hazards.

Be alert for gas leaks: Do not use a match or an open flame unless you know the gas has been turned off and the area has been ventilated. Use a flashlight to inspect for damage.

Turn off the circuit breakers and valves for electricity, water and gas. Even if the power company has turned off electricity to the area, be sure to disconnect your home’s main power supply. Have all utility connections inspected before using them. Don’t use appliances or motors that have gotten wet until they have been cleaned and dried.

Expect mold: Wallboard, upholstered furniture and wooden fixtures may develop mold or mildew. These can be health hazards. Ask your local health authorities for information on removing mold.

Dress for safety: Wear a disposable dust mask inside the house to filter mold, asbestos, lead or other contaminants. Wear safety glasses, leather or rubber gloves and protective shoes to will minimize danger.

Watch for animals, especially snakes: Small animals flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Scare them away by poking a stick into likely hiding places, taking particular care to listen for the warning sound of a rattlesnake.

Carbon monoxide exhaust kills: Do not use generators or other gasoline-powered machines indoors. All camp stoves and charcoal grills should only be used outside. Gas and charcoal fumes can be deadly.

Drain the basement carefully and slowly: Groundwater creates pressure on basement walls and floors. Drain the basement no more than one foot per day to minimize further structural damage.

Hose the house: Many health hazards are found in the mud and silt that floods leave behind. Shovel as much mud as possible out of the house, then hose it down, inside and out.

Be aware of health hazards: Floodwaters pick up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, houses, factories and storage buildings. Many flooded items, such as wallboard and mattresses, will hold mud and contamination forever. Spoiled food, water-logged cosmetics and medicine are also health hazards. When in doubt, throw it out.

The State Emergency Response Team (SERT) is a collaboration of Florida’s state agencies led by the state coordinating officer. SERT’s mission is to ensure that Florida is prepared to respond to emergencies, recover from them, and mitigate their impact. Visit http://www.floridadisaster.org for the latest information on the hurricane relief effort.

On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.

Last Modified: Wednesday, 06-Oct-2004 18:49:49