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Maryland Department of Emergency Management

As Susquehanna River Recedes Evacuees are Preparing to Return Home

MEMA Provides Safety Tips for Residents Returning Home

Reisterstown, Maryland (September 10, 2011) – Even though the floodwaters of the Susquehanna River are beginning to recede the dangers of flooding are not over, according to the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA).

MEMA is working with local officials to support the safety of lives and property after back to back flooding from Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee. With a history of flooding in low lying areas, federal and state officials want to ensure that Maryland residents know what to do after a flood event.

After the flood                                                                                                                                                                                                                          Listen to a radio or television and don’t return home until authorities indicate it is safe to do so. Drive responsibly and pay attention to the directions of fire department and law enforcement 1st Responders and respect all public works and State Highway barricades as you return home.

Remember to help your neighbors who may require special assistance–infants, elderly people and people with disabilities.

  • If your home, apartment or business has suffered damage, call the insurance company or agent who handles your flood insurance policy right away to file a claim.
  • Before entering a building, inspect foundations for cracks or other damage. Don’t go in if there is any chance of the building collapsing.
  • Upon entering the building, don’t use matches, cigarette lighters or any other open flames, because gas may be trapped inside. Instead, use a flashlight to light your way.
  • Keep power off until an electrician has inspected your system for safety.
  • Floodwaters pick up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms and factories. If your home has been flooded, protect your family’s health by cleaning up your house right away. Throw out foods and medicines that may have met floodwater.
  • Until local authorities proclaim your water supply to be safe, boil water for drinking and food preparation vigorously for five minutes before using.
  • Be careful walking around. After a flood, steps and floors are often slippery with mud and covered with debris, including nails and broken glass.
  • Take steps to reduce your risk of future floods. Make sure to follow local building codes and ordinances when rebuilding, and use flood-resistant materials and techniques to protect yourself and your property from future flood damage.
  • Be aware of displaced wildlife and inspect all debris laden areas carefully for rodents, snakes and other animals that may be trapped or sought refuge in the debris.
  • Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires. Electrocution is another major source of deaths in floods. Electric current passes easily through water.

For more information log on to MEMA’s website at www.mema.state.md.usand click on the link for flooding.