Building Safety Issues

If you are concerned about re-entering your damaged home, apartment building or office, call the local emergency management office. (NAME AND TITLE) Emergency Management Director will contact the State Emergency Operations Center requesting volunteer building inspectors who are trained in Structural Assessment Visual Evaluation (SAVE) techniques.

Take extra precautions before re-entering your home or business and especially during your salvage and clean-up efforts. Remember your health and safety come first. Be wary when re-entering a building. If you have protective head gear, wear it! Building cornices, gutters, bricks, even roofs may be very unstable an could tumble to the ground without warning. If you don't feel safe re-entering your home or business, then stay outside.

"As long as there are aftershocks, high winds or flooding, there is a possibility of building collapse for residents," said (YOUR NAME) .

"Be aware that the tornado, flooding or an earthquake and the aftershocks may have weakened the building's foundation. There may be exposed "hot" electric wires or common household chemicals that may be caused toxic fumes or caused contamination," said.

Disaster officials are urging people to keep these safety tips in mind:

Before Entering A Building:

Check the outside of the building: Walk around your house or business. Look for foundation damage, for any cracks in the wall, chimney stability. Make sure the utility lines and gas meters entering your home/business are not damaged. Be aware, you will probably find downed power lines. If you find downed lines, try to safely shut off the electric power to the building. If you detect gas leaks (an odor of rotten eggs), shut off your gas utilities into the building.
Look for external damage: Examine the foundation for cracks or other damage. Also examine porch roofs and overhangs to be sure they still have all their support. Look for gaps between the steps and the house. If any supports or portions of the foundation walls are missing or the ground has "washed away", the floor is not safe. If you see obvious damage, wait until a building inspector has checked the building before you go in.
Enter the building carefully: If the door sticks at the top it could mean the ceiling is ready to fall. If you force the door open, stand outside the doorway clear of falling debris.

After Entering a Building:

Look before you step: The ground and floors are covered with debris including broken bottles, dishes, broken windows, mirrors, sections of walls and nails. Floors and stairs may be very unstable.
If your basement has been flooded -- TURN OFF ELECTRICITY before you walk into your basement.
Be alert for gas leaks: Do not strike a match or use an open flame when you enter the building unless you know the gas has been turned off and the area ventilated. Use a flashlight to inspect for damage.
Turn off the electricity: Even if the power company has turned off electricity to the area, be sure to disconnect your house's power supply. If your water pipes have ruptured, do not use appliances or motors that have gotten wet unless they have been taken apart, cleaned and dried.
Carbon monoxide exhaust kills: Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machine outdoors. The same goes for camping stoves. Charcoal fumes are deadly; cook with charcoal outdoors.
Be aware of health hazards: Spoiled food, cosmetics and medicine are also health hazards. When in doubt, throw them out.