WHAT TO DO AFTER THE STORM

ALL CLEAR – “Beware”

Stay indoors until the authorities declare the storm is over. Note that the All Clear announcement may not be made immediately the storm passes because conditions may still make general movement unsafe.
Help injured or trapped persons, but …Do not move seriously injured persons unless they are in immediate danger of further injury. Give first aid, where appropriate. Clearance, search and rescue and other emergency vehicles will go out as soon as conditions allow.
Call 911 or 949-6555 for help.
Do not touch loose or damaged wires or anything that is touching them.
Do not step in pools of water where such wires could be grounded.
Avoid trees, signs, buildings and other structures that appear damaged.
Do not go sightseeing; you may interfere with rescue work.
If you have been away from home, do not return until advised by the authorities that it is safe to do so.
Be very careful about entering your home.
Beware of scorpions or other insects driven from their usual habitat by floodwaters.
Electrical - Do not turn on the main electrical switch until you have checked the system for damage. If you see sparks, or broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or
circuit breaker. If you have to step in water to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker, contact an electrician first for advice.
Water and sewage – Check for water and sewage lines damage. If you suspect the sewage lines or cesspool are damaged, avoid flushing the toilets. Contact a plumber.
Property and utility damage - Make a list of damage to your property.
Report fallen electricity poles and wires to CUC, damaged phone lines to Cable and Wireless, and broken water mains to the Water Authority or Cayman Water. There is a public sewage system along West Bay Road. If you live in that area and suspect sewage line damage, call the Water Authority.
Before starting clean-up, take pictures of damage, inside and out. They will be important documentation for any insurance claim.
Open windows and doors to ventilate and dry your home.
If there has been window or roof damage, try to protect your home from further rain damage by covering exposed areas with tarpaulin.
Continue to drink bottled water until your regular water supply has been tested safe.
Check refrigerated foods for spoilage. Throw away any ford that has come in contact with flood water as this may be contaminated
Listen for official information from the National Hurricane Committee. Such information will include locations of post-hurricane shelters, and arrangements for relief and medical services.
Use telephone for emergencies only.
Stay away from dikes. The banks of dikes often become soaked and unstable due to heavy rainfall and flood water and can suddenly give way.

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