Shorted-out wires are only a few of the dangers that may await those returning to flooded homes, Greiner says. A flooded home may be full of such booby traps as leaking gas, loose ceilings and slippery, mudcovered stairs.
Perhaps the best advice that can be given to someone returning to a flooded residence is to slow down, Greiner said. "If things are in a big mess, don't rush in. When you're rushed and tired that's when you get hurt the worst."
Don't even enter the flooded home until both the electricity and gas have been shut off, Greiner said. In towns, electricity should be shut off for entire neighborhoods by the electric company. In rural areas, the electricity should be switched off at the meter outside.
Never cross damp floors inside the home in an attempt to shut off electrical power at the fuse box, Greiner said. There is too much danger of electrocution.
Gas should be turned off outside, preferably by the power company. Residents with gas tanks should turn off the gas at the tank.
Open windows and doors to help remove gases in the house. Don't smoke or use any open flames because they could cause gases to explode.
When entering a home that's been flooded, stay alert, Greiner said. The home may have severe structural damage. And it may be slippery.
"It is awfully easy to fall down muddy stairs or get struck on the head by a piece of falling plaster," Greiner said.
Source: Tom Greiner, Extension Agricultural Engineer, Iowa State University Extension