WATER PURIFICATION
Residents under a boil water notice should bring water to a rolling boil for one minute to kill any disease-causing microorganisms.

If you cannot boil water, add six drops of unscented chlorine bleach per gallon of water.

Stir well and let stand for 30 minutes before using it. Bathtubs can be used for the purpose to add water to toilets for flushing.

If you have access to bottled drinking water, allow for 1 gallon per person per day.


POWER LINES and POWER
Never go near downed power lines and always assume they are energized and extremely dangerous. Never walk on top of debris piles and keep children away, even on bicycles.

Active power lines can be hidden under debris.

Check for electrical damage in your homes such as frayed wires. Do not attempt to make any electrical repairs yourself; wait until a certified electrician is able to respond.

Do not attempt to trim any trees that may be near power lines.

Operate generators OUTDOORS only in a well ventilated dry area, away from air intakes to the home and protected from direct exposure to rain.

Never use a generator inside a garage.

Plug appliances into a generator using heavy duty, outdoor cords with a wire gauge adequate for the appliance electrical load capacity.

Observe the manufacturers instructions.

Do not plug the generator into a wall outlet.

Beware of vendors selling generators on the streets; they may not meet certain industry safety standards. Never buy a used generator.


FOOD SAFETY
If you food has thawed in your refrigerator, discard any dairy products and eggs after 2 days. Fruit juices will generally last a few days longer. Meat should be cooked or gilled as soon as it thaws, otherwise discard.

Discard spoiled food items in plastic bags in the green garbage containers. Do not discard food in debris piles outside your home.

Check dates of expiration on all canned goods and discard those that are beyond the expiration date.

Fruits and vegetables can be kept at room temperature without spoiling for many days. Wash with bottled water before eating, if able to do so.


GENERAL SAFETY TIPS
Do not drive unless necessary until all traffic signals have been repaired. If you must drive, observe each intersection as a 4-way stop sign. Observe all county curfew rules while in effect.

Do not allow children to go and play in parks until they are safe and operational. There is extensive tree damage and debris.

Use extreme caution when using candles; do not use them near curtains or other flammable objects. Do not go to sleep with candles burning. Keep them out of the reach of children at all times.

Do not carry large amounts of cash on you; only keep what is necessary.

Always use the buddy system when using ladders to make repairs to your home.



●Hurricane Aftermath: Coping with Stress

●Hurricane Aftermath: Helping Children Cope