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.r') t . 5 T, P ~,!E.---______ ___ 4' ~ A_,j- Give Your Home First Aid A Note About Portable Generators Portable generators can be a big help if you are without power. But remember: Connect appliances one at a time to the generator. Never hook a generator directly to your house. hold wiring yourself. Only a qualified electrician can do this. Use generators outdoors only. They give off carbon monoxide fumes. Avoid using extension cords with generators. If you must use them, check them often to make sure they have not become hot. 4 p Give Your Home First Aid It can be dangerous to go back into your home because the flood may have caused struc- tural, electrtcal, and other hazards, After you have made sure that things are safe, you can take steps to protect your home and contents from further damage, Most of the information in this section assumes that the person doing the work has expe- rience in construction and electrical repair. If you do not have experience in construction and electrical repair, do not try to do this work yourself. Hire a qualified contractor or electri- cian. It is still a good idea to read the information in this book so you will have a better understanding of the jobs ahead, no matter who does them. Even if you have some experi- ence with construction and electrical work, do not attempt any job if you feel uncertain about the right thing to do or you wonder if the job is beyond your skill or physical strength. Read the instructions in this book all the way through before you start. Gather your tools and supplies, and make sure you have enough help. There is plenty of work to go around after a flood. Do only those jobs you can do well and without injuring yourself If you cannot afford to get professional help, check with your Red Cross chapter, your local emergency manager, or your building department to see if there are any volunteer programs avail- able to you. Make Sure" .. "'e fo Go aack Some floods have more than one crest or peak. Even though the water looks like it's going down, it may rise again and trap you. Stay tuned to your local radio or 1V stations to find out if and when you can go back home. If you are not sure whether you can return, contact your local emergency manager. Read the flood safety precau- tions on the back cover of this book. Each year about 150 peo- ple die because of floods. Many of those deaths are because of electrocution or other accidents that happen after the floodwa- ters have gone down. Have someone with you as you check your home and do repairs. Dress for the task-wear sturdy shoes and gloves. Things You Will Need When It Is Sole to Return Home lEi flashlight o First aid kit o Battery operated radio o Waterproof boots or waders o Safety clothing, such as a hard hat and gloves o Boots or shoes with hard soles