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Flooding
and severe storm events have increased in recent years. Repairs from
storm damage can be expensive but some cost-saving strategies and
resources can help. Continue reading to find out more.
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What people do before a
disaster can make a dramatic difference in their ability to cope with
and recover from a disaster. Although natural disasters have become more
frequent, nearly half of U.S. adults do not have the resources and plans
in place in the event of an emergency. Some people postpone or do not
invest in disaster preparedness because they do not have the money to
pay for it. Although disasters can be costly, preparing now can pay off
later.
Build Disaster
Resilience without Spending a lot:
- Know
what kind of disasters
and emergencies are most common where you live.
- Sign
up for emergency alerts
in your area to receive life-saving information from your state and
local municipality.
- Download
the FEMA
App (available in English and Spanish) to receive weather
alerts and safety tips.
- Build
your emergency
supply kit over time. Start with items you may already have in
your home, like a flashlight, extra batteries, copies of important
documents, water, and nonperishable food. Gradually pick up an
extra item from the grocery store, especially if it’s on sale.
Community food banks are a potential resource for anyone
experiencing food insecurity.
- Cost-Saving Tips: Look for foods that have a
long storage life. Use and replace food before its expiration
date.
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Recovering from a
disaster is usually a gradual process. Safety is a primary issue, as
are mental and physical well-being. Reach out for help and take steps
to begin the recovery process for your home, your community, and your
daily life.
Safety First
Be aware of new safety
issues created by the disaster. Watch out for standing water on
roads, contaminated water, gas leaks, broken glass, damaged electrical
wiring, and other hazards caused by the disaster. Report safety issues
to local officials or apartment management. Follow the manufacturer’s
guidance when using cleaning solutions, and items such as chain saws
and generators.
Recovery
Process
- Report your damages and request assistance if
needed.
- If you have insurance, contact your insurance
agent to file a claim.
- Contact local faith-based organizations, and
nonprofits.
- These organizations sometimes provide food
and shelter during emergencies and assist those in need with
finding additional resources.
- Everyone is welcome at a Red Cross shelter
and all disaster assistance is free. Service animals are also
welcome. Download their free guide, Disaster
Recovery: A Guide to Financial Issues.
- Operation HOPE helps people get back on their
financial footing after a disaster. HOPE Inside Disaster strengthens
and aids recovery efforts by assisting individuals and business
owners.
Federally
Declared Disasters
Additional resources are available when there is a federal disaster
declaration. This designation is made by the President and is reserved
for large-scale disasters with widespread damage. If you are affected
by the disaster,
- Find out if you are eligible for disaster
food assistance.
- Learn where you can request help to pay
utility bills after a disaster.
- Find out if you are eligible for disaster
unemployment benefits.
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Email: EPIC@cdc.gov
Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention
1600
Clifton Rd
Atlanta,
GA 30329
Questions?
Contact CDC-INFO
800-CDC-INFO
(800-232-4636) TTY: 888-232-6348
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Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention
1600 Clifton Rd
Atlanta, GA 30329 1-800-CDC-INFO
(800-232-4636) TTY: 888-232-6348
Questions or
Problems | Unsubscribe
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