Nightmare Only Begun

Hurricane Ike aftermath

Twenty-nine Texas counties have been declared a federal disaster:  Angelina, Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Cherokee, Fort Bend, Galveston, Grimes, Hardin, Harris, Houston, Jasper, Jefferson, Liberty, Madison, Matagorda, Montgomery, Nacogdoches, Newton, Orange, Polk, Sabine, San Augustine, San Jacinto, Trinity, Tyler, Walker, Waller, and Washington.

Downed power line, trees, and debris still block some roads, making travel a challenge.   Food and fuel can still be hard to find for the adventurous trying to return home.  Many businesses and shops remain closed.

Federal Emergency Management Agency suggests the following for evacuees returning to their homes:

• Keep tuned to local media for information about caring for your household, finding medical help, and applying for possible financial assistance.
• Don't risk electrocution!
  • Check all electronic equipment for water damage.  If you are uncertain, throw them away.
  • Watch for loose or dangling power lines.
  • Assume any downed wire is a live wire.
  • Stay away from power lines when clearing fallen trees with a chainsaw.
• Drive only when and where necessary. Closed roads are for your protection-they may be weakened and could collapse.
• Limit your telephone use to emergency calls only.
• Open doors and windows to ventilate your home.
• Use bottled water until local officials have determined the water supply is safe.
• Guard against food poisoning. If the power was disrupted, food in the refrigerator may have spoiled. Do not refreeze food once it begins to thaw.
• Only use generators outdoors in a well-ventilated area.
• If your property is damaged:
  • Contact your insurance agent as soon as possible.
  • Take photographs or video of the damage.
  • Keep a detailed record of cleanup costs.
  • If your property had flood damage and you have flood insurance, you also must contact the company or agent who handles your flood insurance. (Most homeowner's insurance policies do not handle flood damage.) FEMA administers the National Flood Insurance Plan (NFIP) through the Federal Insurance Administration. The NFIP makes flood insurance available in communities that adopt and enforce flood control ordinances.
• Be a good neighbor.  Do everything you can to make sure those around you are safe and have the help they need.
• Be good to yourself.  Get help, especially if you or your loved ones feel anxiety, stress or fatigue. Remember, recovering from a disaster takes time, and know that help is available. If you are in a designated county, register online at www.fema.gov or call FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).