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Safety Precautions after a Hurricane

Although the end of a hurricane is a big relief for many, you still need to take precautionary measures to keep your family safe. The following are some of the safety steps you can follow. 

• Avoid using a wet electric device. In case it is plugged in, ensure you turn off the power from the main switch and call an electrician to check it before using it. 
• You should also learn a few basic things about electrical safety after a disaster 

Use Flashlight instead of candles when there’s a blackout 

• When using candles, ensure that you keep them away from any inflammable material. 
• You can also learn more about the dangers associated with power outages 

Take caution when near damaged buildings 

• It is important to note that hurricanes may damage buildings hence rendering them unsafe. If your house or another building close to you has been damaged to ensure that it is safe before getting close to it. 
• Leave your home immediately in case you hear unusual noises. 

Prevent Carbon Monoxide poisoning 

Note that gas or coal-burning materials generate carbon monoxide. This might include things such as pressure washers, generators, camp stoves, and charcoal grills. You won’t be able to smell it because it’s odorless, but when carbon monoxide accumulates in your home, it becomes hazardous. 

How to stay safe from Carbon monoxide 

• Avoid using gas or coal-burning equipment within your home, garage or basement. 
• Use a battery backup CO detector whenever you use a generator or anything else using fuel. 
• Don’t heat your home using a gas oven. 
• In case you have a carbon monoxide detector and it sounds an alarm, leave your home and call 911 immediately. 
• Avoid running a truck or car inside a garage at your home. 
• It is also important to check out information on the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Outdoor safety measures 

Stay away from flood water 

• Avoid driving through water that’s flooded (it could be deeper). 
• Follow warnings about flooded areas 
• Avoid touching flooded water because in most cases they carry germs. You should wash your hands with a detergent if you happen to touch it. 
• When you are close to flooded water, ensure you wear a life jacket 

Stay away from power lines 

• Look out for power line overhead 
• Avoid being close to fallen power lines. 
• Seek information on how to keep safe from electric hazards after a disaster 

Protection from pests and animals 

• Floods always bring mosquitos that carry diseases. For that reason, ensure you use bug spray (insect repellant) with DEET. Put on long sleeves, sock, and pants. 
• In case you spot a dead animal, report it to local authorities. 
• Stay away from wild animals after the hurricane. Report immediately when you encounter them. 
• Seek information on rabies, a disease commonly spread by animals. 

In general, it is always good to keep yourself and your family safe after a hurricane. Do not assume that since the storm is over you can quickly get back to your normal life. Take note of all the aforementioned precautions to stay safe.
 
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