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The most import aspect to starting recovery is determining that the affected area is safe. If the safety of the First Responders and those aiding them is not assured they cannot complete their job to the fullest.
Health and Safety Guidelines:
Your first concern after a disaster if your safety and that of your family. Monitoring for both mental and physical health and safety is the most important step in the recovery process.
- After a disaster administer first aid if PROPERLY trained and seek medical help when needed.
- Drink plenty of water, beware of exhaustion and pay attention to your bodies needs.
Many of the same things about returning home and preparing for disasters are the same. These include:
- Keeping a battery powered flashlight and radio nearby
- Check for hazards before entering any area's such as the smell of natural gas or propane, frayed or down wires, flooded area's and animals that have moved into structures.
- Watch out for items that have shifted around in cabinets, attics and on shelves.
- Carefully and safely clean up any household hazardous spills and disinfect contaminated items if possible.
The people of Maine are always there for each other in times of crisis and that is one of the most valuable aspects of our state. However to help in the safest and best way it is important to donate your time, effort and money to reputable agencies and to work with others.
- "Self-Deploying" or going out on your own can make more victims and make more work for first responders. Use the website, https://www.maineready.org/need/ to sign yourself up to volunteer or to find what goods and service are needed after a disaster.
- Unsolicited donations often times are not able to be used. When donating supplies make sure that th right supplies are going to the right place. Contact your Local Emergency Manager or County Emergency Management Agency to determine what agency is collecting supplies and how to donate them.