AFTER

Stay tuned to a battery-operated radio for the latest emergency information.

Help injured or trapped persons.
Give first aid where appropriate. Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Call for help.

Remember to help your neighbours who may require special assistance--infants, elderly people, and people with disabilities.

Stay out of damaged buildings.  Return home only when authorities say it is safe.

Enter your home with caution.
Use a flashlight when entering damaged buildings. 

Open windows and doors to help dry the building.

Shovel mud while it is still moist to give walls and floors an opportunity to dry.

Check food supplies and test drinking water.

Fresh food that has come in contact with floodwaters may be contaminated and should be thrown out.

INSPECTING UTILITIES IN A DAMAGED HOME

Check for gas leaks--If you smell gas or hear a blowing or hissing noise, open a window and quickly leave the building. Turn off the gas at the outside main valve if you can and call the gas company from a neighbour’s home. If you turn off the gas for any reason, a professional must turn it back on.

Look 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. If you have to step in water to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker, don't do it!  Wait for professionals.

 Check for sewage and water lines damage--If you suspect sewage lines are damaged, avoid using toilets. If water pipes are damaged, contact the water company and avoid the water from the tap.  You can obtain safe water by melting ice cubes.