This is often nearly as excruciating as before and during a storm because it requires patience and keeping safety foremost in mind! Everyone impacted is anxious; after people and pets, the anxiety surrounds the fundamental question: what was the damage? Here are some critical basics that homeowners and residents should know and absentee home owners should keep in mind:
- Do not venture into evacuated areas until it is publicly announced as safe to do so!
- Avoid driving immediately after if feasible (traffic lights may not be working)
- Be aware of downed lines/wet equipment and flood waters and don’t handle or venture into
- Once it is safe to clean up, wear protective gear (gloves, mask, etc.)
- Protect what you can from further damage until it can be properly repaired
Be PATIENT—with utility providers, property managers and vendors
Know that it will take time for crews to mobilize and get to all the areas of need. The city will work as fast as possible to restore “normalcy” and property managers will assess the condition of the property and communicate what’s needed as swiftly as safety will allow. Once they do, be as responsive as possible and bear in mind the actual completion of repairs may take time as well. Demand will be everywhere and resources stretched to their limits.