September is National Preparedness Month, and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has launched a mobile device app that will notify Americans with weather alerts, safety tips, how to prepare for an emergency, and it will even list shelters that are open in your area. With South Carolina having just endured hurricane Hermine, remember that we are still in hurricane season until November 30th, so if you are in a high flood zone area and/or coastal county, this is the app you should keep on your phone. Our tip to you: Receiving early notification is critical to how well you can prepare for the future.
RECOVERING AFTER A FLOOD
From the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) website: www.floodsmart.gov
The Road to Recovery
As soon as floodwater levels have dropped, it’s time to start the recovery process. Here’s what you can do to begin restoring your home.
•If your home has suffered damage, call your insurance agent to file a claim.
•Check for structural damage before re-entering your home to avoid being trapped in a building collapse.
•Take photos of any floodwater in your home and save any damaged personal property.
•Make a list of damaged or lost items and include their purchase date and value with receipts, and place with the inventory you took prior to the flood. Some damaged items may require disposal, so keep photographs of these items.
•Keep power off until an electrician has inspected your system for safety.
•Boil water for drinking and food preparation until authorities tell you that your water supply is safe.
•Prevent mold by removing wet contents immediately.
•Wear gloves and boots to clean and disinfect. Wet items should be cleaned with a pine-oil cleanser and bleach, completely dried, and monitored for several days for any fungal growth and odors.
