What to know when returning home after evacuating

If you have evacuated, please only return home when officials say it is safe. Do not enter your home if:

⛽️ You smell gas.

🌊 Floodwaters remain around the building.

🚨 Authorities have not declared it safe to enter.

Also, watch out for these fire hazards:

✔️ Leave immediately if you smell gas or hear a hissing sound.

✔️ Appliances or vehicles exposed to water.

✔️ Exposed electrical outlets and wiring.

When returning home after a power loss, follow these food safety tips:

🤢 Don't taste the food.

🌡️ Use a thermometer to check food temperature.

🗑️ Throw away food that is 40+ degrees Fahrenheit for more than 2 hours.

If there is damage to your home or belongings, document it before you clean it up:

📸 Take photos before you begin to clean up. 

📝 Make a list of damaged or lost items and gather receipts. 

⚡ Do not touch or cut power lines as they may be live.

Tips to clean up safely:

🌞 Wait until daylight to clean up.

⚡️ Don't touch or cut any downed lines.

🌊 Stay away from flooded areas.

🪑 Be sure to take lots of breaks to avoid straining your body. 

🪚 Be very careful with chainsaws and other power tools. 

💧 Stay hydrated and take breaks in the A/C ❄️ (if available).

For more tips, visit www.ready.gov

If you have additional tips, share them in the comments and 'Repost' to ensure everyone in our community is informed.