Cleaning Up After A Storm.

            Severe weather is not always predictable so you should be prepared for a disaster at any time.  Use common sense.  Be cautious about travel.  Listen for radio or television travel advisories.  If there is a power failure use battery powered flashlights. Never leave candles unattended. If electrical circuits and electrical equipment have gotten wet, turn off the power at the main breaker.  Never turn on power or use electric tools while standing in water.

           Never use generators, gasoline, propane, natural gas, or charcoal burning devices inside your home, basement, or garage.  Carbon monoxide is odorless, colorless gas can cause sudden illness and death.

           If there is water damage, open windows and using fans can help as well as dehumidifiers.  Surfaces should be cleaned and disinfected with bleach.  Never mix bleach and ammonia; this will produce dangerous toxic fumes.  Clean and disinfect floors.  Replace rinse water frequently.  Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces; countertops, appliances, and metal furniture.  Remove and discard items that cannot be washed and disinfected such as stuffed animals, paper products.

           Use a wet-dry vacuum a sump pump to remove standing water.  Do not try to vacuum wet carpets. After the carpet is dry thoroughly vacuum to get rid of dirt. The carpet may need to be shampooed, or steam cleaned.

           Mosquitoes increase greatly after rain or flooding.  The mosquitoes carry dangerous diseases such as West Nile Virus.  Use insect repellant and wear long sleeved clothing outdoors.  Empty water out of bird baths, flower pots, and other containers to reduce mosquito breeding.