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Frequently Asked Questions about Disaster Recovery |
References are identified after answers.
Q) What are common personal reactions to a disaster?
Stemming from these events, you may find that you are:
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
“PTSD is a condition that can develop after someone has experienced a life-threatening situation. People with PTSD often can’t stop thinking about what happened to them. They may try to avoid people and places that remind them of the disaster and may work hard to push thoughts of the even out of their head. Feeling numb is another common reactions. Finally, people find that they have trouble relaxing. They startle easily and are often on guard.” (EDEN)
Q) When can I return to my home after a disaster?
Don't return home until authorities have indicated it is safe.
Q) What should I look for when I re-enter a building?
When entering buildings, use extreme caution and be cautious of hazards include gas leaks, electrical problems including electrocution, structural problems and contaminated food and water.
Q) What are the concerns with possible gas leaks?
Leave your home immediately and call 911 and the gas company if you smell the putrid odor of leaking gas. Lanterns, torches, electrical sparks and cigarettes could cause an explosive fire if there is a leak. Do not turn on any light switches. (UWE, HSEM)
Q) What should I do to report a petroleum or hazardous materials spill?
Contact the Minnesota Duty Officer at 800-422-0798; backup 651-296-2233 and TDD 651-215-6952.
When making notifications of spills/incidents, state:
The purpose of the 24-hour Minnesota Duty Officer program is to provide a single point of contact for both public and private sector entities to call. This includes single family homes.
All calls require, the name of the caller (you can remain anonymous), telephone number for call-backs at the scene or facility, date, time and location of the incident. (HSEM)
Q) What are the concerns with possible electrical problems including electrocution?
Wear rubber gloves and rubber-soled shoes to avoid electrocution. Do not turn on any lights or appliances if the house has been flooded. Turn off the electricity when checking electrical circuits and equipment or when checking a flooded basement.
Q) What are the concerns with possible structural problems?
Watch for falling debris and the possibility of collapsing ceilings and basement walls.
Q) What should I do about my personal hygiene as I handle items after a disaster?
Washing your hands is the single most important thing you can do to protect your health, especially before you eat or drink anything.
The eight steps of proper hand washing
(MDOH)
Q) What should I do if the water is off in my home?
Transport and store clean water in clean plastic containers. Get a beverage cooler equipped with a spigot, and keep it filled with clean water for hand washing. (MDOH)
Q) What if the water is on but it is contaminated?
(MDOH)
Q) I think there is mold, how do I know for sure?
If any materials are still wet or moist after 24-48 hours, you should assume they have mold growing on them. See Mold Problems.
Q) Where can I get local assistance and/or additional resources?
Minnesota Duty Officer: 800-422-0798, Backup 651-296-2233 and TDD: 651-215-6952.
The scope of the Minnesota Duty Officer Program includes, but is not limited to, actual or impending incidents such as the following:
Other Resources Available:
All calls require:
References
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