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citizens from rebuilding or improving their homes in the flood- plain. This often sets the stage for emotional confrontations between citizens and government agencies. Notes Special permits or temporary zoning variances may be needed to allow for the placement of emergency housing trailers on lots or park land while permanent residimces are being repaired. Tempo- rary housing units will also require utility connections and drops, which may need special permits, provisional licenses or provider permission. Sanitation permits may be required for portable toilets while septic and sewer systems are restored. Special trucking permits may be required to move temporary housing units over weight restricted or limited use highway and road systems. Except for those who have federal flood insurance, much of the loss will not be covered by existing insurance policies and can result in great economic repercussions. Recent purchases may be covered under buyer protection plans offered by the vendor or credit card companies. Items protected by "lifetime guarantees" may be replaced or repaired under the provisions of the underwrit- er's policy. While these benefits may seem small when compared to the total loss, they can result in significant savings to the consumer. Some items damaged by the flood may be irreplaceable. Family records and documents, photographs, and memorabilia are among the tragic losses encountered by flood victims. In some areas, historical societies and museums step in to help preserve family keepsakes. While some flood damaged items may be beyond hope, many emotionally important articles have been salvaged through the conservation efforts of these community ., d .. -~-spmte -organrzatrorw.------------------ Emotional problems can follow any disaster. Emergency workers and the public at large may be in need of critical incident stress debriefing and intervention programs. Human Service agencies should be prepared to deal with increased service needs on a broad front. Schools should provide their staff with training on how to recognize and deal with behavioral issues resulting from the flood. The emotional damage of a flood can be as great as the property loss and more difficult to deal with. The process of returning a community to normal following a major flood can be a daunting task. Economic and emotional losses can produce extremely stressful situations for everyone. But out of the ruin also comes an opportunity for community improve- ment. Entire communities have relocated to higher ground to Page 9 - 6