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.