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Introduction
Once a disaster happens, you will face many unanticipated situations. Below are steps you may go through as you work to review your situation, begin recovery and clean up efforts, and consider financial assistance options.
It is human nature to want to survey damage as soon as possible, but avoid the urge to rush in to salvage building contents, or to take risks to further protect your property.
- Do not ignore civil authorities' warnings to stay out of restricted areas.
- Pay attention to announcements by local and government officials.
- Obey boil-water orders.
Even if you sustain very little damage, getting to your location may be dangerous. When you receive permission to enter a disaster area, wear hard-soled shoes and watch where you step. Storms dislodge nails, pieces of metal and other construction materials. Roof members, flooring, decking, steps and walls may look intact when they are structurally unsound. There may be hidden electrical hazards.
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Photos © www.extremeinstability.com
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- Do not use matches, lighters or other sources of flame after a storm.
- Damaged gas lines, leaking fuel containers and tanks may explode or ignite.
- Assume all wires on the ground—including cable TV feeds—are electrically charged.
- Debris can mask danger. Storm trash can ignite if electrical lines are severed underneath.
- Standing water and some appliances can be electrically charged after severe storms.
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