Use Caution When Returning to Flood Damaged Home
Release Date: June 10, 2006
Release Number: 1642-008
» More Information on Massachusetts Severe Storms and Flooding
ANDOVER, Mass. -- Disaster officials urge residents to take extra precautions when returning to hurricane or flood-damaged homes, apartments or businesses to avoid accidents and injury. The Massachusetts Emergency Management (MEMA) and the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) caution that all danger has not passed simply because the water is receding and the building appears safe.
Flood and wind hazards include exposed electrical wires, contaminated floodwater and weakened structures. These are not always obvious but can be life-threatening. It is important to take precautions because flood-related road closures or detours may delay the response of emergency vehicles should an accident or fire occur. Disaster officials 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 (Gas leaks will smell like rotten eggs.).
- Look for external damage: Examine the foundation for cracks or other damage. Inspect porch roofs, overhangs, and the foundation. If you find obvious damage, ask a building inspector to check the building before you go inside.
- Enter the building carefully: If the door sticks at the top as it opens, it could mean the ceiling is ready to cave in. Don't walk under a sagging ceiling until it has been checked.
AFTER ENTERING A BUILDING
- Look before you step: Floors and stairs may be covered with debris and may be very slippery. Watch out for broken bottles, nails and other hazards.
- Be alert for gas leaks: Do not strike a match or use an open flame when entering a building unless you know the gas has been turned off and the area has been ventilated. Use a flashlight to inspect for damage, not an open flame.
- Turn off the main breakers and valves for electricity, water and gas. Even if the power company has turned off electricity to the area, you should immediately shut off the electrical system at the circuit breaker. Have all utility connections inspected before resuming their use. Do not use appliances or motors that have gotten wet until they have been cleaned and dried.
- Expect mold growth. Within days of being waterlogged, dry wall, upholstered furniture and wooden fixtures may develop mold or mildew. Mold and mildew 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 spores, asbestos, lead or other contaminants. Wear safety glasses, leather or rubber gloves and protective shoes. This will minimize harm to you if you encounter a hazard.
- Hose the house: Many health hazards are found in the mud and silt that floodwaters 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, 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.
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 06-Dec-2006 09:36:04