Audio Files: What to Do

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Protecting yourself from adverse health effects of smoke (:30 secs, 488kb, MP3)

Smoke from wild fires can be just as dangerous as the flames themselves. Pay attention to local air quality reports and stay alert for health warnings related to smoke. If it looks smoky outside, avoid physical activity outdoors and don’t let your children play outside. Keep your indoor air as clean as possible by keeping windows and doors closed. Avoid burning things like candles or fireplaces inside. If you have a lung or heart disease, are an older adult, or have children, talk with your doctor about whether and when you should leave the area.

This has been a message from the US Environmental Protection Agency.

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Asbestos and lead (:60 secs, 939kb, MP3)

Older buildings may contain asbestos and lead. Pipe or other insulation, ceiling tiles, exterior siding, roof shingles and sprayed-on soundproofing may contain asbestos. Lead is a toxic metal that causes many negative health effects, especially in young children. Disturbing materials containing lead-based paint may release lead dust into the air. If your home contains asbestos or lead-based paint and any of these materials have been damaged or will be disturbed during cleanup, talk to public health authorities. Removed materials should be handled while still wet or damp, double bagged and labeled. You should wear gloves, goggles and a face mask. Avoid activities that will generate dust, such as sweeping or vacuuming debris that may contain asbestos or lead. Do not use a belt sander, propane torch, heat gun, dry scraper or dry sandpaper to remove lead-based paint. Temporarily move your family out of the apartment or house until the work is done and the area properly cleaned.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Carbon monoxide (:30 secs, 471kb, MP3) en Español

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas. It can kill you. Don’t use anything indoors that burns fuel, such as gasoline-powered generators, camp stoves and lanterns, or charcoal grills. Opening doors and windows or using fans won’t prevent a buildup of carbon monoxide. Have your vents and chimneys checked to make sure water heater and gas furnace exhausts aren’t blocked. If you feel sick, dizzy or weak while using a generator, get to fresh air right away.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Children and environmental hazards (:30 secs, 454kb, MP3)

Children are especially vulnerable to environmental hazards. Their exploratory behavior often places them in direct contact with materials that adults would avoid. Before children return to disaster-affected areas, homes, schools and outdoor play areas should be cleaned and decontaminated. Children should not be involved in clean up efforts. They should be the last group to return to affected areas.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Children and flood water (:30 secs, 472kb, MP3) en Español

Children are at greater risk than adults from contaminants carried by flood water. Since they dehydrate faster, they need to drink plenty of fluids. If the safety of your water is in question, either use bottled water or bring tap water to a rolling boil for at least one minute, and let it cool before use. You should also keep children away from mud and make sure they don’t play with anything that may have become polluted by flood water or sludge. If you have questions about your tap water, you should give your child sponge baths using bottled or boiled water.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Cleaning homes and businesses after a disaster (:30 secs, 486kb, MP3)

Cleaning homes and businesses after a disaster can pose significant health and environmental challenges. People may be exposed to potentially life-threatening hazards from leaking gas lines, and carbon monoxide poisoning from indoor use of unvented fuel-burning equipment. During flood cleanup, remove contaminated materials and reduce moisture and humidity to help prevent long-term health risks from bacteria, mold and other microorganisms.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Cleaning up sediment (:30 secs, 471kb, MP3) en Español

The sediment left behind by receding flood water often contains a wide variety of pollutants. They can include fuel oils, gasoline, human and animal waste, metals and other material. Health officials caution against contact with sediment, if possible. If you do come in contact with it, wash any exposed skin with soap and water and change into clean clothing. If you must remove sediment from your property, be sure to wear gloves, goggles and a dust respirator or face mask.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Companion animals (:30 secs, 471kb, MP3)

Plan ahead to protect your pets during a disaster. Since Red Cross and other public family shelters cannot accept pets, make arrangements to drop them off somewhere safe in case you have to evacuate your home. You can assemble a portable pet disaster kit with food and supplies. Act to protect your pet as soon as any warnings of approaching disaster are given. In general, what is best for you and your family during an emergency is best for your pets, too.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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What to do with disaster debris (:30 secs, 523kb, MP3)

Methods that communities use to dispose of the waste left behind after a disaster will vary depending on the type of debris and the available waste management options. Please do not burn or bury debris. Fire and smoke can have negative environmental effects of their own, and burying debris may contaminate the soil and underground water sources. Using landfills and typical recycling methods is often not possible because of the large volume of waste that a disaster generates.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Evacuation plans (:30 secs, 484kb, MP3)

When community evacuations become necessary, local officials provide information to the public through the media. Other warning methods, such as sirens or telephone calls, also are used. You should keep a full tank of gas in your car or make transportation arrangements with friends or your local government if you do not own a car. Listen to a battery-powered radio. Gather your family and go if you are instructed to evacuate immediately. Secure your home by locking doors and windows and unplugging electrical equipment. If time permits, gather your disaster supplies kit, and wear sturdy shoes and clothing that provides some protection.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Finding family members (:30 secs, 523kb, MP3)

As with many aspects of dealing with disaster, it’s best to prepare before such an event occurs. You and your family can establish somewhere to meet should you become separated. If you want to let your family and friends know that you are OK following a disaster, you can list yourself on the Red Cross’s "Safe and Well" Internet registry. You can also use this registry to search for others who have been affected by a disaster.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Flooding and lead-based paint (:30 secs, 472kb, MP3) en Español

Homes built before 1978 are likely to contain lead-based paint, which may flake after being soaked by flood water. Lead is a toxic metal that causes many negative health effects, especially in children. Disturbing materials containing lead-based paint may release lead dust into the air. If you suspect that debris in your home is contaminated with such paint, seek help from public health authorities or specially trained contractors. Individuals should not handle such materials themselves.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Flood water (:30 secs, 473kb, MP3) en Español

Dealing with polluted flood water creates important challenges. Here’s what to do. Remove standing water quickly. Discard wet, absorbent materials that can’t be thoroughly cleaned and dried. Dry out the building. When fumes aren’t a problem and if electricity is available and safe, remove moisture by closing windows and running a dehumidifier or window air conditioner. Limit your contact with flood water. Don’t even breathe mists from flood water. When cleaning, wear gloves, goggles and a respirator or a dust mask.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Gas leaks (:30 secs, 472kb, MP3) en Español

Many fuel lines were broken during the hurricane, and highly explosive vapors may still be present in many buildings. Plus, explosive gases, such as methane, may accumulate from decaying materials. Open all windows when you enter a building. If you smell gas or hear gas escaping, don't smoke, light matches, operate electrical switches, or use telephones — including cell phones. Leave immediately; leave doors and windows open. Notify emergency authorities, and don't return until they tell you it’s safe.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Generator exhaust (:30 secs, 523kb, MP3)

If you use a generator after a disaster, put it outside or carefully vent the exhaust outside. The exhaust contains dangerous levels of carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that is odorless and colorless. At very low exposure levels carbon monoxide can cause flu-like symptoms in many people, but because it is so difficult to detect it could kill you before you know you’ve been exposed. Whether a disaster has occurred or not, always make sure you have a working carbon monoxide detector in your home.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Household cleaners (:30 secs, 473kb, MP3) en Español

Flood cleanup involves cleaners, disinfectants and pesticides used carefully. Mixing household cleaners and disinfectants, such as bleach and ammonia, can produce dangerous toxic fumes. Open windows and doors. Don’t stay in a room longer than necessary, and allow plenty of time to air out the room. If it’s safe to use electricity, use fans to keep the air circulating. Keep all household products out of sight and away from children. Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately in case of poisoning.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Household cleaners (:60 secs, 941kb, MP3)

If you’re cleaning up after the flood, you’ll need to use cleaners, disinfectants and pesticides. But you need to be careful. Mixing certain types of household cleaners and disinfectants — such as bleach and ammonia — can produce toxic fumes and cause injury or even death. Do not mix them or use them in combination. Read and follow all label instructions carefully. Provide fresh air by opening windows and doors. Don’t stay in a room any longer than necessary, and allow plenty of time for the area to air out. If there’s no standing water in the building and it’s safe to use electricity, use fans both during and after disinfecting, cleaning and sanitizing products. Be sure that electrical appliances are properly grounded. Keep all household products locked, out of sight and away from children. Securely close child-resistant packaging after each use. Keep items in original containers. Call 1-800-222-1222 immediately in case of poisoning.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Household hazardous materials collections (:30 secs, 475kb, MP3)

Following a disaster, EPA conducts household hazardous materials collections. EPA will collect batteries, paint and workshop supplies, cleaning and pool supplies, lawn and garden products, indoor pesticides and thermometers, automotive products and other hazardous chemicals. EPA cannot accept animal remains, human and other biological waste, needles, spoiled food, mold damaged items, tires, furniture or other general trash.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Hazardous waste (:30 secs, 473kb, MP3) en Español

Returning to hurricane-damaged homes and buildings? Be alert for leaking containers and household chemicals, such as caustic drain cleaners and chlorine bleach. Keep children and pets away from leaking or spilled chemicals. Don’t combine chemicals to avoid dangerous or violent reactions. Don’t dump chemicals down storm sewers, drains or toilets. Don’t burn household chemicals. Mark and set aside unbroken containers until they can be properly disposed of. Hazardous household waste collection sites are being set up. Look for signs where to go.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Hazardous waste (:58 secs, 909kb, MP3)

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and other officials urge you to use caution when returning to hurricane-damaged homes and buildings. Be on the alert for leaking containers and reactive household chemicals, such as caustic drain cleaners and chlorine bleach. Take these precautions to prevent injury or further damage. Keep children and pets away from leaking or spilled chemicals. Don’t combine chemicals from leaking or damaged containers, as this may produce dangerous or violent reactions. Don’t dump chemicals down storm sewers, drains or toilets. Don’t burn household chemicals. Clearly mark and set aside unbroken containers until they can be properly disposed of. Be careful when disturbing building materials to prevent injury or other health effects. Debris-management programs, including household hazardous waste collection, are being set up. These efforts may take days or weeks to reach all communities.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Leftover household products (:30 secs, 470kb, MP3)

Leftover household products containing corrosive, toxic, ignitable or reactive ingredients are considered household hazardous waste. Do not dispose of products like paints, cleaners, oils, batteries and pesticides by pouring them down the drain, onto the ground, into storm sewers, or, in some cases, putting them out with the trash. These disposal methods can pollute the environment and pose a threat to human health.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Dealing with mold (:30 secs, 472kb, MP3), en Español, Tiếng Việ

Mold is a serious problem in flooded areas. The key to controlling mold growth is by controlling moisture, and doing it quickly. If you have a mold problem at home, wash it off hard surfaces with detergent and water, and dry completely. Be sure to get rid of the excess water or moisture. Fix leaky plumbing or other sources of water. You may have to replace absorbent materials, such as ceiling tiles and carpet, that become moldy. For more information about mold cleanup, call 1-800-438-4318.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Avoid problems from mold, bacteria and insects (:30 secs, 423kb, MP3)

Avoid problems from mold, bacteria and insects. Standing water is a breeding ground for a wide range of microorganisms and insects such as mosquitoes. Mosquitoes can spread diseases like West Nile Virus. Microorganisms, including bacteria and mold, can become airborne and inhaled. Where floodwater is highly contaminated, infectious disease is also a concern.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Poison control (:30 secs, 523kb, MP3)

Call the Poison Control Center immediately at 1-800-222-1222 if you think someone may be poisoned, or if you have questions about poisons. You will speak to a specially trained nurse, doctor or other medical professional. They can also give you advice on poison prevention and how to poison-proof your home.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Preparing water for use (:30 secs, 471kb, MP3)

Emergency Disfection of Drinking Water. Use only water that has been properly disinfected for drinking, cooking, making any prepared drink or for brushing teeth. Use bottled water that has not been exposed to flood waters if it is available. If you don’t have bottled water, you should boil water to make it safe. If the water is cloudy, filter it through clean cloths or allow it to settle, and draw off the clear water for boiling. Boil the water for one minute, let it cool, and store it in clean containers with covers.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Protecting yourself from adverse health effects of smoke (:31 secs, 487kb, MP3)

Smoke from fires can be just as dangerous as the flames themselves. Pay attention to local air quality reports and stay alert for health warnings related to smoke. If it looks smoky outside, avoid physical activity outdoors and don’t let your children play outside. Keep your indoor air as clean as possible by keeping windows and doors closed. Run your air conditioner with the fresh-air intake closed and the filter clean. If you don’t have an air conditioner, staying inside with windows closed may be dangerous in extremely hot weather so you should seek alternate shelter. Avoid burning things like candles or fireplaces inside. If you have a lung or heart disease, are an older adult, or have children, talk with your doctor about whether and when you should leave the area.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Private wells and flood water (:30 secs, 472kb, MP3) en Español
Flood water can contaminate private wells. No public agency monitors the water quality inside these wells. That’s the responsibility of the owner. Don’t use water from a flooded well for any purpose until you’ve talked with the proper health authorities. Don’t turn on the pump and don’t flush the well. You should have the well disinfected by a well contractor. Afterward, have the water sampled and tested to make sure it’s safe. Just because it looks and smells safe, doesn’t mean it actually is.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Septic systems (:30 secs, 472kb, MP3) en Español

Septic systems can be damaged by flooding. After a flood, have the system professionally inspected and serviced. If the system is obstructed, pump it as soon as possible. If sewage has backed up into the basement, clean and disinfect the area with half a cup of chlorine bleach in each gallon of water. Remember, whenever the water table is high or your septic system is threatened by flooding, sewage can back up into your home. The only way to prevent it is to use the system less and make sure the tank is watertight.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Shelter-in-place - If you are at home (:30 secs, 509kb, MP3)

It’s important to follow instructions of local authorities during a shelter-in-place warning. If you are at home, close and lock all windows and exterior doors, close window dressings, and turn off fans, heating and air conditioning systems. Get your disaster supplies kit and your pets, and go to an above ground-level, interior room without windows. Use duct tape and plastic sheeting to seal cracks and vents, and listen to your radio or TV until the all-clear is given or you are told to evacuate.

This has been a message from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

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Shelter-in-place - If you are in a vehicle (:30 secs, 523kb, MP3)

It’s important to follow instructions of local authorities during a shelter-in-place warning. If you are in a vehicle, go inside to seek shelter if you are very close to a public building, your home or office. If you cannot go inside, stop your vehicle in the safest place possible. Turn off the engine, close windows and vents, seal vents with duct tape if possible, listen to the radio and stay where you are until you hear further instructions. Follow directions of law enforcement officials.