In the hours after a storm

Inside your Home

• If there is no power, make sure the main breaker is on
• If the breaker is on, but you still have no power, contact the utility company
• Use flashlights for lighting, DO NOT USE CANDLES
• Secure pets
• Use your telephone for emergencies only
• Before using your propane or oil heating system, have it inspected by a professional
• Turn off any damaged utilities
• Immediately clean up spilled medicines, poisons bleach, gasoline or other flammable liquids
• Take photographs of all damage for insurance claims prior to repair
• Make temporary repairs to correct safety hazards

Outside your home

• Use caution and exercise good judgment when re-entering disaster area
• Avoid damaged or fallen power poles or lines and downed wire
• Immediately report electrical damage to authorities
• Be alert for hazards
• Beware of downed trees
• Wear sturdy gloves when handling debris
• Check on your neighbors, the elderly and disabled
• Take photographs of all damage prior to repair for insurance claims
• Make temporary repairs to correct safety hazards
• Look for electrictrical system damage
• Inspect the entire length of your chimney
• Pile debris in two piles one for trees branches/ leaves and twigs. Other would be non-vegetation