News - Infoboxes

Sunday, Nov. 08, 2009

What to do before, during and after the storm

@BR Boxtext bold lede colon:n What to do before the storm:

— If a storm is threatening the area, follow local news reports for information and actions to be taken.

— Fuel your vehicle.

— Fill ice chests with ice.

— Bring lawn furniture, toys, planters and garden tools inside. Secure anything that might fly in high winds.

— Prepare boats as appropriate.

— Turn up refrigerators and freezers to coldest settings.

— Turn off and unplug unneeded appliances.

— Turn off the air conditioner.

— Turn off all LP and gas tanks.

— Fill sinks and tubs with water.

— Get an extra supply of cash.

— Call someone out of town to let them know of your plans. Instruct other family members to call that person for information about you after the storm.

n What to do during the storm:

— Stay away from windows and doors, even if they are covered. Go to an interior first-floor section such as a hallway, bathroom or closet.

— Close interior doors and brace exterior doors.

— Lie on the floor under a sturdy object.

— If the storm’s eye passes over, it will be calm for a short time. Remain indoors. As soon as the eye passes, winds increase rapidly to hurricane force from the opposite direction.

— Remain calm. It may take several hours for the storm to pass.

n What to do after the storm:

— Drive only if necessary. Debris and floodwaters may be covering roads, making them impassable.

— Stay on firm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet. Standing water may also be electrically charged from downed power lines.

— Beware of snakes, insects and animals driven to higher ground by floodwaters.

— Re-enter your home with extreme caution. Beware of fallen objects or damaged roofs and walls.

— Use flashlights for light. Do not use matches, torches, candles or other open flame.

— Check gas, water and electrical lines and appliances for damage. Do not try to repair damaged gas or electrical lines. Call a professional.

— Do not drink or prepare food with tap water until you are certain it is not contaminated.

— If your home was flooded, flush plumbing fixtures with water. Have health authorities inspect your sanitary disposal system.

— Do not use food that came in contact with floodwaters.

— Start cleanup as soon as possible. Take pictures of all damage before starting cleanup or repairs for insurance purposes.

— Never connect portable generators to your house. Use them only to run necessary appliances.

— Give special attention to cleaning children’s toys, cribs, playpens and play equipment. Boil items a baby might put in her or his mouth. Discard toys that are stuffed, waterlogged and non-cleanable.

— Wear protective clothing while cleaning up debris. Wear rubber gloves while scrubbing flood-damaged interiors and furniture.