FEMA Recommends Residents In Hurricane-Hit Areas Take Extreme Caution In Storm's Aftermath
Release Date: September 19, 2003
Release Number: HQ-03-193
Washington, D.C. - The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends that residents in the areas hit by Hurricane Isabel stay tuned to their local news for ongoing response and recovery information. In addition, residents are urged to take extreme caution. While the storm may have passed, there are many dangers left behind that could cause death or injury.
"Please stay alert when returning to your home or when venturing out in your neighborhood after a hurricane," said Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary for Emergency Preparedness and Response. "While the immediate danger is past, there are downed power lines, high water and other dangers that still threaten public safety."
FEMA recommends:
- Residents give immediate first aid when appropriate, but do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help.
- Stay away from your home until local authorities have signaled that it is safe to return.
- Avoid loose or dangling power lines and report them immediately to the power company, police, or fire department.
- Enter your home with caution. Beware of snakes, insects, and animals driven to higher ground by flood water. Also, immediately check for soundness of floors and ceilings and check for gas leaks. If you smell gas or hear a blowing or hissing noise, open a window and leave immediately. Turn the gas off at the outside main valve, if you can, and call the gas company from a phone outside the house.
- Check for electrical system damage. If you see sparks or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. Call an electrician for assistance.
- Check for sewage and water lines damage--If you suspect sewage lines are damaged avoid using the toilets and call a plumber. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid the water from the tap.
- To help ventilate your home, if it is wet, open windows and doors.
- Check refrigerated foods for spoilage and throw out any questionable food.
- Take pictures of the damage, both to the house and its contents and for insurance claims.
- Drive only if absolutely necessary and avoid flooded roads and washed-out bridges. Use telephone only for emergency calls.
For more information about hurricane preparedness and recovery, visit the FEMA Web site, at www.fema.gov.
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 Citizen Corps, the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.
Last Modified: Friday, 19-Sep-2003 14:11:18