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Disasters can be overwhelming, but by following these safety guidelines, you can protect yourself and your loved ones during the aftermath.
Prioritize Immediate Needs:
Flood Safety:
Stay out of floodwater. It's dangerous and hides hazards.
Never drive through flooded roads. Your vehicle can be swept away.
If you must be in floodwater, wear a life jacket.
Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with floodwater.
Taking Care of Yourself:
Drinking Water: Listen to local advisories. Only use bottled, boiled, or disinfected water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
Boil water for 1 minute to disinfect it. Let it cool before using.
Disinfection with bleach: Use unscented household bleach (5%-9%). Add 8 drops per gallon of clear water, stir well, and let it stand for 30 minutes. If cloudy, double the bleach amount.
Food Safety: Throw away food that may be contaminated by floodwater or improper storage.
Shelter and Safety:
Building Safety:
Avoid entering damaged buildings. Officials will determine safety.
Leave immediately if you hear strange noises indicating a collapsing structure.
Preventing Hazards at Home:
Never use generators, grills, or other fuel-burning equipment indoors. Carbon monoxide is a serious risk. Keep them outside, at least 20 feet from windows, doors, or vents.
Use battery-powered CO detectors whenever using fuel-burning equipment.
Never use wet electrical devices. Turn off the power and wait for an electrician to check it.
If there's a power outage, use flashlights instead of candles. Keep lit candles away from flammable objects and never leave them unattended.
Downed Power Lines and Animals:
Downed Power Lines: Stay clear and report them to the electric company.
Animal and Pest Control:
Use insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitos.
Stay away from wild or stray animals. Report them to the authorities.
Report dead animals to local officials for proper disposal.
Cleanup and Recovery:
Cleanup Safety:
Wear proper safety gear (hard hats, goggles, N95 masks, gloves, boots) when cleaning up.
Wash your hands frequently with soap and disinfected water, especially before eating and after cleanup.
Never use electrical tools while standing in water.
Taking Care of Yourself (continued):
Clean and treat any wounds to prevent infection.
Work in teams and take breaks, especially in hot weather. Stay hydrated.
Get help lifting heavy objects (avoid lifting more than 50 pounds by yourself).
Seek support from friends, family, or mental health professionals if needed. Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or even numb? It’s completely normal. Don’t navigate this emotional rollercoaster alone. In the video below, you can find some tips to help you cope. And remember, if you’re struggling, there’s FREE help available. Reach out to us for support at: https://www.mamhouston.org/mentalhealth
MAM Houston is here for you! By following these safety tips and staying informed, you can recover from a disaster and get back on your feet.
(Source: CDC.gov)
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