Stay Away from Disaster Areas

Extension Calling

The West Virginia University Extension Service sends these tips to help keep you safe during disaster recovery efforts.

While we all want to help, for now, stay away from disaster areas. Your presence can interfere with rescue and emergency operators as well as putting yourself at risk. Contact local coordinators of volunteer efforts such as Volunteer West Virginia to find out how and when you can help most. Your help will still be needed weeks, months, and even years from now.

If you have evacuated, return home only when authorities say it is safe. If you are in a disaster area, continue to listen to your weather radio or local stations as additional flooding is possible. Check on neighbors and friends, especially those who are elderly, disabled, or have small children. However, avoid entering ANY building before local officials have said it is safe. Floodwaters can cause foundations to sink, floors to crack, and buildings to suddenly collapse.

Learn more at your local extension office, or online at https://extension.wvu.edu/community-business-safety/disaster-preparedness/flooding and stay safe.