Recovery Process
Recovering from a disaster is a gradual process. Your first concern after a disaster is your family's health and safety.
Check for injuries, administer first aid if needed, and seek medical attention for any injured person. Do not attempt to move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of death or further harm. If you must move an unconscious person, first stabilize the neck and back, then immediately call for help.
Once you and your family are safe, take things one step at a time.
Inform local authorities about health and safety issues including downed power lines, chemical spills, washed out roads, smoldering insulation, and dead animals.
Keep a battery-powered radio with you for emergency updates from local officials. Help can be available through multiple sources. Your insurance company (if you have one), community organizations, and local officials can explain your options and how to get assistance.
If you are returning home following a disaster, know it can be both physically and mentally challenging. Above all, use caution. You may be anxious to see your property, but do not return home before local officials say it is safe to return. Do not enter your damaged home if:
- You see downed power lines or damaged electrical wiring,
- Smell gas, or
- Floodwaters remain around the building.
Be aware of new safety issues on your property that may have been created by the disaster. Watch for downed or damaged electrical wiring, contaminated buildings and water, gas leaks, broken glass, and slippery floors. Carefully walk around the outside of buildings and check for loose power lines, gas leaks and structural damage. If you have any doubts about safety, have your residence inspected by a qualified building inspector or structural engineer before entering.
