RestorationsSOS.com - Fire and Water Damage Restoration

When a Disaster Strikes

By Sarah Anderson
Published: June 12, 2006

Another important aspect of being ready for a disaster is to know what to do and how to act as a disaster strikes. Knowing the procedures and being able to act fast will save precious moments at times of disaster.

Evacuation

If the authorities instruct you to evacuate, do it fast. Listen to the radio or television for the location of emergency shelters and for additional instructions from local emergency officials.

As you leave to your home keep in mind the following:

• Wear protective clothing.
• Take your disaster supplies kit.
• Use travel routes specified by local authorities. Avoid using shortcuts because certain areas may be impassable or dangerous to cross.

In-Home Disaster

If the emergency occurs while you are at home, follow these steps to assure safety for you and family:

Fire Prevention
Check for fires, electrical, and other household hazards. Search the house and check for damage using a flashlight. Do not light matches or candles or turn on electrical switches.

Spilled bleaches, gasoline, and other flammable liquids may produce deadly fumes and when chemicals mix, and release flammable vapors presenting a serious fire hazard.

If you must, use portable generators but be cautious. Make sure generators are installed and operated outdoors, in a well-ventilated area. Before refueling a generator make sure it has cooled down.

Whenever you suspect a fire hazard, contact your local fire department for instructions immediately. Your local fire department will also be able to assist with information regarding cleanup of spilled chemicals.

Utilities

1. Gas
   To prevent additional danger presented by gas, sniff for gas leaks. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, turn off the main gas valve, open windows, evacuate the building quickly.
2. Electricity
   Many disaster related emergencies cause power malfunctions. If power is down, be sure to stay away from downed power lines as they might become unsafe and present electrocution hazards. Call your local power company to check the status of your local grid.
   
   Turn off all major appliances to prevent overloads in power lines when power is restored, leading a second outage.
3. Water
   In cold weather, drain pumps, supply lines, and plumbing systems such as traps in drains, sinks, and washing machines can freeze when the power is down. Avoid burst pipes, close the main water valve and open the spigots and supply lines to drain them.

Getting Help

When a disaster strikes, use your communication plan and call your out-of-town contact. Keep in mind that you may have trouble getting a dialing tone, getting through, or the telephone system may be down altogether. Simply be patient and consistent, try every minute or two to call again.

More Information

For more information, please check your Emergency Action Checklist and follow the check list step by step.

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