Returning home can be both physically and mentally challenging. Above all, use caution.
After an emergency, it’s important to restore your home to good order as soon as possible to protect your health and prevent further damage to your house, property and belongings.
Depending on the nature of the emergency, once permission has been granted to return home, consider the following measures:
- Inspect your home carefully before entering. Walk carefully around the outside to check for loose power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage. If you have doubts about safety, have your home inspected by a qualified building inspector/structural engineer before entering.
- Check for damaged utilities. If applicable, have your power, water, and gas supplies checked by a professional before turning them back on.
- Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning by placing generators, pressure washers, charcoal grills, camp stoves or other fuel-burning devices outside and away from open doors, windows, and air vents.
- Do not enter a building if you smell gas or an unusual odour, exit immediately and call 9-1-1.
- Ensure water sources such as wells, cisterns, dugouts and livestock water are checked by the health authority for contaminants and clean or treat as needed.
- Be wary of wildlife as you return home after a disaster. Disasters and life-threatening situations will worsen the unpredictable nature of wild animals.
- Call your insurance company and follow their instructions and advice.
- Document with photos and written notes on what the damage looks like and what you lost. For insurance purposes, the more documentation you have, the better.
- Keep records of all clean up and repair costs, including hotels, meals, and travel expenses.
- Wear waterproof boots and gloves to avoid floodwater touching your skin.
- Clean your home as recommended. Never mix bleach and ammonia because fumes are toxic.
- Dispose of any spoiled or contaminated foods, especially after a power outage. If you’re not sure, throw it out.
- Eat and drink only food and water you know are safe.
- Tune into social media channels/radio for any emergency updates, news, reports, or resource identification.