If any of your electrical appliances are wet, first turn off the main power switch in your house, then unplug the wet appliance, dry it out, reconnect it, and finally, turn on the main power switch. (Caution: Don't do any of these things while you are wet or standing in water.) If fuses blow when the electric power is restored, turn off the main power switch again and then inspect for short circuits in your home wiring, appliances and equipment.
Check your food and water supplies before using them. Foods that require refrigeration may be spoiled if electric power has been off for some time. Also, don't eat food that has come in contact with flood waters. Be sure to follow the instructions of local authorities concerning the use of food and water supplies.
If needed, get food, clothing, medical care or shelter at Red Cross stations or from local government authorities.
Stay away from disaster areas. Sightseeing could interfere with first aid or rescue work, and may be dangerous as well.
Don't drive unless necessary, and drive with caution. Watch for hazards to yourself and others, and report them to local authorities.
Write, telegraph or telephone your relatives, after the emergency is over, so they will know you are safe. Otherwise local authorities may waste time locating you--or if you have evacuated to a safer location, they may not be able to find you. (However, do not tie up the phone lines if they are still needed for official emergency calls.)
Do not pass on rumors or exaggerated reports of damage.
Follow the advice and instructions of your local government on ways to help yourself and your community recover from the emergency.