WATER DAMAGE

Creative Commons/starmanserie

Make sure the house is itself isn’t a danger to you. You may not be able to move to a safer location, but if there is a part of the house that may be safer take refuge there.  Turn off the power and the gas, and make sure you watch out for any animals that  may have wandered into the house.  Do not use a vacuum to remove water.

CLEAN UP

Creative Commons/USASOC-News-Service

Wear protective clothing.  Use a stick or something else to prod debris.  There may be animals in there.  Don’t use candles.  Light flashlights outside of the house.  The spark to turn it from off to on could ignite gas if there is any leaking.

BE CAREFUL DRIVING

Creative Commons/U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service – Northeast Region

Drive only when officials have cleared the area to be safe for driving and only if necessary.  There could be power lines, downed trees and debris, or flash floods.  Just because you see a clear path does not necessarily mean it will be that way on your return path.

FOOD SAFETY

Creative Commons/USDAgov

Do not drink tap water or use it to prepare food. If tap water touches sealed foods you need to throw it out.  If food seems iffy in the refrigerator you need to dispose of it.  Follow these guidelines for food safety as the longer power is out the less you can use what is refrigerated.

WHO TO CALL

Creative Commons/Wesley Fryer

Make sure you use your phone for emergencies only.  Remember telling long lost friends you are safe is not an emergency.  Have a plan within your family (even if you have to make it now) of who to contact if you are separated.  You can go to this Red Cross website for help.  Remember your car battery can be used to charge your phone just be careful not to leave the car running in an enclosed space.  Talking takes more time than texting.  If you need updates have someone outside of the area text you information.

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Please remember, everyone in a disaster is affected differently and respond in their own way to the stress of the situation.  Just because your neighbor’s lights didn’t go out doesn’t mean they weren’t stuck in the house all night so afraid they couldn’t sleep or stop crying.  I say this to say, we all need help in some sort of way even if you can’t see what that help may be.  Reach out to all of your neighbors with patience and understanding.  Stay safe and hug your loved ones!

What are your survival tips for those affected by Hurricane Sandy?  Let’s help GEM nation!

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