Newsroom > DHHS News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 5, 2008

CONTACTS
Marla Augustine, Communications and Legislative Services, (402) 471-4047, marla.augustine@dhhs.ne.gov
Kathie Osterman, Communications and Legislative Services, (402) 471-9313 or (402) 326-4277, kathie.osterman@dhhs.ne.gov

Lincoln—Here are some safety tips for people who live in areas of Nebraska that have been affected by storms and flooding:

• Keep kids away from storm and flood water. Don’t allow them to play in flood water areas. Wash their hands frequently with treated water or alcohol-based hand sanitizers. Disinfect toys that may have come into contact with flood waters.

• Avoid unstable, unsafe buildings and structures until they have been examined and determined to be safe by authorities.

• Be alert to electrical and fire hazards. Stay clear of fallen power lines. Call the power company to report them. During clean-up, if electrical circuits or equipment have gotten wet or are in or near water, turn off the electricity at the circuit breaker or fuse on the service panel. Don’t turn the power back on until electrical equipment has been inspected and found to be safe by a certified electrician. If you smell gas, turn off the main gas valve and contact authorities. Don’t enter the house until told it’s safe to do so.

• Clean up and prevent mold growth. Dry out the building as quickly as possible. Open doors and windows and use fans. Clean wet objects and surfaces with a bleach solution of 1 cup bleach per 5 gallons of water.

• Take care of yourself. Wash your hands with soap and water frequently or use alcohol-based sanitizers. Wear protective gear like heavy work gloves, watertight boots, hard hats and goggles. Treat wounds with soap and clean water and apply an antibiotic ointment. Contact a physician to find out if a tetanus shot is warranted.

For resources for coping with tornadoes and severe storms go to http://dhhs.ne.gov/SevereStorms. Click the "subscribe" link for ongoing updates.

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