Important information about recovering after a hurricane or flood
Avoid and tend to OTHER DISEASES AND INJURIES
Stay away from flood waters and mosquitoes. Pay attention to warnings about water on streets and roads. Do not drive vehicles or heavy machinery in areas with water concentrations. If you must work in flooded areas or near them, wear a life vest. If you are trapped in an area with increasing water levels, wear a life vest or use any floating device. To prevent mosquito bites wear long pants, socks and long sleeved shirts as well as repellents with DEET or Picardin.
Stay away from construction sites and unstable structures. Stay away from damaged structures or buildings until they have been inspected and declared safe by a building inspector or other government authorities. Leave immediately if you hear any abnormal noise that may indicate that the structure is in the verge of collapse.
Beware of wild or stray animals. Stay away from wild or stray animals. Call your local authorities so they can take care of the animals. Follow local authority recommendations regarding disposal of dead animals.
Beware of possible fire or electrocution situations. NEVER touch a downed power line. Call the power company and inform them about the issue. Do not touch cables during cleaning or other activities. If circuits and electrical equipment are wet or if they are in or near water, shut off the power supply from the switch board. Do not restore power until an authorized electrician has inspected the equipment. Do not light candles near flammable objects or leave them unattended. If possible, instead of candles use flashlights or other battery operated type of illumination.
Beware of hazardous materials. If handling hazardous materials, wear protective clothes and articles (such as a mask). Rinse your skin if you feel you have touched a dangerous chemical product. Get in touch with local authorities if you are not sure how to handle or dispose of hazardous materials.
Clean and avoid mold formation. Clean and dry your home or building quickly (within the following 24 to 48 hours). Open every door and window. Use fans to dry your home or building. To avoid mold formation, clean wet objects and surfaces with water and detergent. To remove mold, wear rubber gloves, open doors and windows and clean with a mix of 1 cup of domestic chlorine in 1 gallon (3.8 liters) of water. Dispose of porous items (such as carpets and cloth lined furniture) that cannot dry quickly. Repair leaks in ceilings, walls or piping.
Take your time and seek help. Look out for stress or physical or emotional fatigue. Establish priorities for cleaning tasks and take your time to perform the chores. If possible, do not work alone. Do not overwork yourself. Seek help from your family, friends or hire somebody. If necessary, seek professional help.
Prevent musculoskeletal injuries. Move heavy objects with the help of one or more people. Do not lift anything heavier than 50 pounds (per person).
Stay calm. When the weather is calm, remain in air conditioned places; take breaks in shaded areas or cool rooms; drink water and non alcoholic beverages frequently; wear light, comfortable clothes in light colors; and perform your outdoor chores during the coolest hours.
Tend to your injuries. Wash all open wounds and cuts with clean soap and water. Apply antibiotic. Get in touch with a doctor to verify if your injury requires additional treatment (such as tetanus shots). If an injury develops redness, swelling or pus, seek medical attention immediately.
Wash your hands. Use water and soap to wash your hands. If there is no water, you can use alcohol based hand washing products.
Wear protective clothes during cleaning chores. Wear helmets, security glasses, resistant gloves and impermeable boots with steel toe and sole protection (not only the shoe shank). Wear earplugs or protective headphones to limit the risk of hearing injuries if there is noise caused by machinery.
