PREPAREDNESS 

AND SAFETY MESSAGING 

FOR HURRICANES, FLOODING, 

AND SIMILAR DISASTERS
2

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES
Published

June 2018

Suggested citation

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2018). Preparedness and safety messaging for 

hurricanes, flooding, and similar disasters. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Disclaimer

Web addresses of nonfederal organizations are provided solely as a service to readers. Provision 

of an address does not constitute an endorsement of this organization by CDC or the federal 

government, and none should be inferred. CDC is not responsible for the content of other 

organizations’ webpages. 
4

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Contents

BACKGROUND ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................6

PREPARE BEFORE A HURRICANE OR SEVERE FLOODING .....................................................................................................7

Make a plan.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................7

Prepare an emergency food supply...............................................................................................................................................................................................7

Prepare an emergency water supply............................................................................................................................................................................................8

Safety and personal care products................................................................................................................................................................................................9

Prepare your family for the storm...............................................................................................................................................................................................10

Get your home ready for the storm............................................................................................................................................................................................10

Prepare your car for the storm.........................................................................................................................................................................................................11

Evacuate or stay at home........................................................................................................................................................................................................................12

PREVENT ILLNESS AFTER A HURRICANE OR SEVERE STORM ..............................................................................13

Flood water safety............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................13

Stay safe in extreme heat.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................14

Protect yourself from air pollution.............................................................................................................................................................................................14

Odor...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................15

Personal hygiene and handwashing..........................................................................................................................................................................................15

Diarrheal diseases...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................16

Tetanus..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................16

Wound infections.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................17

Food and water safety after a storm.........................................................................................................................................................................................19

Food...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................19

Water................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................21

Cleaning and preparing personal water storage containers.......................................................................................................................23

Medications..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................25

Stay safe in a shelter or in crowded living conditions.........................................................................................................................................25

Body lice.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................26

Scabies............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................26

Conjunctivitis........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................27

RETURNING HOME.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................28

Cleaning and sanitizing your home...........................................................................................................................................................................................28

Mold...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................29

Clean-up safely outside the home................................................................................................................................................................................................31

Solid waste management and debris removal.............................................................................................................................................................32

Chemical and oil exposures ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................32
5

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

MOSQUITOES AND HURRICANES...................................................................................................................................................................................33

Prevent mosquito bites..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................34

West nile.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................34

Dengue...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................35

Zika....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................35

PREVENT INJURY AFTER A DISASTER....................................................................................................................................................................35

Power outages and electrical dangers.....................................................................................................................................................................................35

Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning........................................................................................................................................................................................37

Chainsaw safety.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................38

Animal hazards..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................38

Landslides and mudslides......................................................................................................................................................................................................................41

Coping with disaster.....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................43

Feelings of depression or suicidal thoughts....................................................................................................................................................................44

Helping children cope................................................................................................................................................................................................................................44

IMMUNIZATIONS............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................45

Recommendations following disaster.....................................................................................................................................................................................45

Impact of power outage on vaccine storage...................................................................................................................................................................46

AT-RISK POPULATIONS........................................................................................................................................................................................................................47

Pregnant women...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................47

Postpartum women......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................48

Breastfeeding mothers...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................49

Infants............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................49

Children........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................50

Older adults..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................51

People with disabilities..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................51

People with chronic illness...................................................................................................................................................................................................................52

PET SAFETY...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................56

ADDITIONAL WEB AND MULTIMEDIA RESOURCES....................................................................................................................57

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................58

FOR MORE INFORMATION ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 60
6

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

BACKGROUND 

The right message at the right time from the right person can save lives. The Centers for 

Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Joint Information Center (JIC), as part of CDC’s Incident 

Management System (IMS), developed a key messages document while activated for the 2017 

hurricane season response. The 2017 Hurricane Response Key Messages served as a tool to 

communicate critical health messages and response updates to partners. The JIC worked with 

CDC subject matter experts to develop key messages that addressed emerging challenges, 

including food safety, carbon monoxide poisoning, waterborne diseases, and mold. Having 

an accessible, online document provided jurisdictions with the most up-to-date science to 

communicate accurately and effectively about exposure and health risks—as well as protective 

measures—associated with hurricanes and flooding. After the hurricane response, CDC 

expanded the scope of the key messages document to include messages on preparedness, safety, 

and recovery. The purpose of the Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, 

and Similar Disasters is to provide a preparedness and response resource for all jurisdictions. 

Jurisdictions can add the preparedness and safety messaging document as a resource to their 

communication plans that address hazards expected from extreme weather involving strong 

wind and high water, like hurricanes and floods.
7

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

PREPARE BEFORE A HURRICANE OR SEVERE 

FLOODING 

During and after a hurricane, you may need supplies to keep your family safe and healthy. 

Remember that a hurricane could cut off your power and water supply. You also may not be able 

to drive because of damage to your car. Roads may be flooded or blocked.

Make a plan

Even if there’s no risk of a hurricane or severe storm right now, make sure you and your family 

are prepared.

■ Stock up on emergency supplies for your home and car.

■ Write down emergency phone numbers and keep them near every phone in your house or 

on the refrigerator. Program them into your cell phone, too.

■ Buy a fire extinguisher and make sure your family knows where to find it and how to use it. 

■ Find out where the nearest shelter is and the different routes you can take to get there if 

you have to leave your home.

■ Make sure that everyone in your family knows what the warning sirens in your area sound 

like—and what to do if they go off.

For more information on how to make an emergency plan, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/phpr/areyouprepared/plan.htm. 

Prepare an emergency food supply

A disaster can easily disrupt the food supply at any time, so plan to have at least a three to five 

day supply of food on hand. Keep foods that:

■ Have a long storage life (like canned food)

■ Require little or no cooking, water, or refrigeration, in case utilities are disrupted

■ Meet the needs of babies (baby food or formula, if needed) or other family members who 

are on special diets

■ Meet pets’ needs

■ Are not very salty or spicy, as these foods increase the need for drinking water, which may 

be in short supply

How to store emergency food

When storing food, it is not necessary to buy dehydrated or other types of emergency food. 

■ Check the expiration dates on canned foods and dry mixes. Home-canned food usually 

needs to be thrown out after a year. 

■ Use and replace food before its expiration date. 
8

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Certain storage conditions can enhance the shelf life of canned or dried foods. The ideal location 

is a cool, dry, dark place. The best temperature is 40° to 70°F. 

■ Store foods away from ranges or refrigerator exhausts. Heat causes many foods to spoil 

more quickly.

■ Store food away from petroleum products, such as gasoline, oil, paints, and solvents. Some 

food products absorb their smell.

■ Protect food from rodents and insects. Items stored in boxes or in paper cartons will keep 

longer if they are heavily wrapped or stored in waterproof, airtight containers.

Preparing food

Preparing food after a disaster or emergency may be difficult due to damage to your home and 

loss of electricity, gas, and water. Having the following items available will help you to prepare 

meals safely:

■ Cooking utensils

■ Knives, forks, and spoons

■ Paper plates, cups, and towels

■ A manual can- and bottle-opener

■ Heavy-duty aluminum foil

■ Propane gas or charcoal grill; camp stove

■ Fuel for cooking, such as charcoal. (CAUTION: Only use charcoal grills or camp stoves 

outside of your home to avoid smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning.)

For more information on food and water need before a disaster, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/foodwater/prepare.html. 

Prepare an emergency water supply

■ Store at least 1 gallon of water per day for each person and each pet. Consider storing more 

water than this for hot climates, for pregnant women, and for people who are sick.

■ Store at least a 3-day supply of water for each person and each pet. Try to store a 2-week 

supply if possible.

■ Observe the expiration date for store-bought water; replace other stored water every 6 

months.

■ Get supplies to make your drinking water safe (like iodine tablets or chlorine bleach). A 

bottle of unscented liquid household chlorine bleach can be used to disinfect your water 

and for general cleaning and sanitizing. Try to store bleach in an area where the average 

temperature stays around 70°F (21°C). Because the amount of active chlorine in bleach 

decreases over time due to normal decay, consider replacing the bottle each year. 

■ Gather clean containers for water.
9

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Water containers (cleaning and storage)

Unopened commercially bottled water is the safest and most reliable emergency water supply.

Use of food-grade water storage containers, such as those found at surplus or camping supply 

stores, is recommended if you prepare stored water yourself.

Before filling with safe water, use these steps to clean and sanitize storage containers:

1. Wash the storage container with dishwashing soap and water and rinse completely with 

clean water.

2. Sanitize the container by adding a solution made by mixing 1 teaspoon of unscented liquid 

household chlorine bleach in one quart of water.

3. Cover the container and shake it well so that the sanitizing bleach solution touches all 

inside surfaces of the container.

4. Wait at least 30 seconds and then pour the sanitizing solution out of the container.

5. Let the empty sanitized container air-dry before use OR rinse the empty container with 

clean, safe water that already is available.

Avoid using the following containers to store safe water:

■ Containers that cannot be sealed tightly

■ Containers that can break, such as glass bottles

■ Containers that have ever held toxic solid or liquid chemicals, such as bleach or pesticides 

■ Plastic or cardboard bottles, jugs, and containers used for milk or fruit juices

For proper water storage:

■ Label container as “drinking water” and include storage date.

■ Replace stored water that is not commercially bottled every six months.

■ Keep stored water in a place with a fairly constant cool temperature.

■ Do not store water containers in direct sunlight.

■ Do not store water containers in areas where toxic substances such as gasoline or 

pesticides are present.

To learn more about how to prepare an emergency water supply, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/. 

Safety and personal care products

Gather any prescription medicines.

Gather safety items, including:

■ First aid kit and instructions

■ Fire extinguisher

■ Battery-powered radio

■ Flashlights

■ Extra batteries

■ Sleeping bags or extra blankets
10

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Gather personal care products, including:

■ Hand sanitizer

■ Wet cleaning cloths (like baby wipes) in case you don’t have clean water

■ Soap

■ Toothpaste

■ Tampons and pads

■ Diapers

What’s next?

■ Make sure you have all the health and safety supplies you need before the storm. 

For more information on what you will need to prepare for the storm, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/supplies.html. 

Prepare your family for the storm

Know the difference between a hurricane “watch” and “warning”. 

If you hear that there’s a hurricane or flood watch or warning in your area, you can take steps to 

get ready.

Get your family ready

■ Go over your emergency plan with your family. Make sure you have the supplies you need. 

■ Keep checking for updates about the storm. Watch TV, listen to the radio, or check online.

■ Listen for disaster sirens and warning signals.

■ Pack important documents (like wills or passports) with you.

■ Call the hospital, public health department, or the police about special needs. If you or a 

loved one is older or disabled and won’t be able to leave quickly, get advice on what to do.

■ Check your carbon monoxide detector. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be deadly. 

For more information about how to get your family ready for a disaster, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/plan.html. 

Put pets and farm animals in a safe place

Keep in mind emergency shelters and many hotels may not let you bring animals with you if you 

need to evacuate. Ask your local public health department if pets are allowed in shelters. 

For more information about pet safety, visit https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/petprotect.html. 

Get your home ready for the storm

■ Clear your yard. Make sure there’s nothing that could blow around during the storm and 

damage your home. Move bikes, lawn furniture, grills, propane tanks, and building material 

inside or under shelter.
11

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ Cover up windows and doors outside. Use storm shutters or nail pieces of plywood to 

the window frames to protect your windows. This can help keep you safe from pieces of 

shattered glass.

■ Be ready to turn off your power. If you see flooding, downed power lines, or you have to 

leave your home, switch it off.

■ Fill clean water containers with drinking water. You’ll want to do this in case you lose your 

water supply during the storm. You can also fill up your sinks and bathtubs with water for 

washing.

■ Check your CO detector to prevent CO poisoning.

■ Lower the thermostat in your refrigerator and freezer to the coolest possible temperature. 

If your power goes out, your food will stay fresh longer. 

For more information about how to get your home ready for a disaster, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/preparedness.html. 

Prepare your car for the storm

■ Fill your car’s gas tank. You may also want to consider making plans with friends or family 

to get a ride.

■ Double check your car’s emergency kit.

■ Move cars and trucks into your garage or under cover.

■ Have an emergency water supply.

Make an emergency car kit

Always keep an emergency kit in your car in case you need to leave quickly during a hurricane. 

Make sure you include:

■ Food that doesn’t go bad (like canned food)

■ Flares

■ Jumper cables (sometimes called booster cables)

■ Maps

■ Tools, like a roadside emergency kit

■ A first aid kit and instructions

■ A fire extinguisher

■ Sleeping bags

■ Flashlight and extra batteries

■ Having a GPS—either in your car or on your smartphone—can help during an emergency too.

For more information on how to get your car ready for a disaster, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/preparedness.html. 
12

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Evacuate or stay at home

If a hurricane or severe flooding is coming, you may hear an order to evacuate (leave your home). 

Never ignore an order to evacuate. Even sturdy, well-built houses may not hold up against an 

extreme storm with strong wind and high water. Staying home to protect your property is not 

worth risking your health and safety.

You may also hear an order to stay at home. Sometimes, staying at home is safer than leaving.

If you need to evacuate:

■ Only take what you really need with you, like your cell phone, chargers, medicines, 

identification (like a passport or license), and cash.

■ Make sure you have your car emergency kit.

■ If you have time, turn off the gas, electricity, and water. Also unplug your appliances.

■ Follow the roads that emergency workers recommend even if there’s traffic. Other routes 

might be blocked.

If you need to stay home:

■ Keep listening to the radio or TV for updates on the hurricane or flooding.

■ Stay inside. Even if it looks calm, don’t go outside. Wait until you hear or see an official 

message that the storm is over. Sometimes, weather gets calm in the middle of a storm but 

then gets worse again quickly.

■ Stay away from windows. You could get hurt by pieces of broken glass during a storm. Stay 

in a room with no windows, or go inside a closet.

■ Be careful. Winds can blow debris—like pieces of broken glass and other objects—at high 

speeds. Flying debris is the most common cause of injury during a hurricane. You’re also at 

a higher risk of breaking a bone or cutting yourself on loose nails, metal, or other objects.

■ Be ready to leave. If emergency authorities order you to leave or if your home is damaged, 

you may need to go to a shelter or a neighbor’s house.

For more information about emergency evacuations, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/evacuate.html. 
13

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

PREVENT ILLNESS AFTER A HURRICANE OR 

SEVERE STORM 

Flood water safety

Emergency management officials have requested that people escaping flood waters as a 

last resort do not stay in the attic of their house. If the highest floor of your home becomes 

dangerous, get on the roof. Call 911 for help and stay on the line until the call is answered. 

Follow local flood watches, warnings and instructions.

Flood water poses drowning risks for everyone, regardless of their ability to swim. Swiftly moving 

shallow water can be deadly, and even shallow standing water can be dangerous for small 

children.

Vehicles do not provide adequate protection from flood waters. They can be swept away or may 

stall in moving water.

If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, 

low spots, canyons, washes, etc. 

If you are in an area that is in danger of flooding or you are under a flood watch or warning: 

■ Gather the emergency supplies, including prescription medications, you previously stocked 

in your home and stay tuned to your local radio or television station for updates.

■ Turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve if evacuation 

appears necessary.

■ Have your immunization records handy or be aware of your last tetanus shot, in case you 

receive a puncture wound or a wound becomes infected during or after the flood.

■ Immunization records should be stored in a waterproof container.

■ Fill bathtubs, sinks and containers with clean water. Sanitize the sinks and tubs first by 

using bleach. Rinse and fill with clean water.

Avoid driving through flooded areas and standing water. As little as six inches of water can cause 

you to lose control of your vehicle, and two feet of water can cause your car to be swept away. 

Turn around, don’t drown. 

For more information on flood water safety, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/readiness.html. 
14

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Stay safe in extreme heat

Be aware of yours and others’ risk for heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps and fainting.

Some people are more at risk of developing a heat-related illness than others. Be sure to check on 

people in these groups and follow tips to keep them safe: 

■ Older adults (aged 65+)

■ People with diabetes 

■ People with other chronic medical conditions

■ Outdoor workers

■ Infants and children

■ Low income households or households without air conditioning

■ Athletes

■ Pets

Heat stroke is the most serious heat illness. It happens when the body can’t control its own 

temperature and its temperature rises rapidly. Sweating fails and the body cannot cool down. 

Body temperature may rise to 106°F or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. Heat stroke can cause 

death or permanent disability if emergency care is not given. 

For more information about how to prevent heat-related illnesses, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/. 

For more information about heat safety for workers, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/heatstress/default.html. 

Protect yourself from air pollution

After a major storm, burning of debris, chemical releases, and other incidents can lead to poor 

air quality. Individuals with asthma, COPD, or heart disease and infants and children are most at 

risk from exposure to air pollution, but everyone can experience effects like eye, lung or throat 

irritation. 

When news reports the EPA Air Quality Index, or other public announcements warn you that 

levels are high:

■ Reduce the amount of time you spend outside and spend more time indoors, where 

pollution levels are usually lower. 

■ If you are cleaning up after storm damage try to do indoor work when outdoor air pollution 

is bad and do outdoor work when pollution levels are lower, usually in the morning and 

evening. 

■ Choose easier outdoor activities (like walking instead of running) so you don’t breathe as 

hard.

■ Avoid busy roads and highways where air pollution is usually worse because of emissions 

from cars and trucks.
15

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Odor

An odor is caused by a substance in the air that you can smell. Odors, or smells, can be either 

pleasant or unpleasant. In general, most substances that cause odors in the outdoor air are not 

at levels that can cause serious injury, long-term health effects, or death. However, odors may 

affect your quality of life and sense of well-being.

Not everyone reacts to environmental odors the same way. In general, if you are young or female, 

you may be more sensitive to odors. If you don’t smoke, you are usually more sensitive to odors 

than smokers. If you suffer from depression and anxiety disorders, or have migraines, allergies, 

asthma, and other chronic lung conditions, you may feel worse when you smell unpleasant 

odors over a long time. 

You may have signs and symptoms when exposed to environmental odors, but the symptoms 

usually go away when the odor is gone. The most common symptoms from environmental odors 

are headache and nausea.

You can reduce your exposure to odors by

■ Exercising indoors during days with more environmental odors 

■ Staying indoors when your allergies, asthma, or chronic lung problems are acting up

■ Leaving the area for a few hours if possible 

For more information about environmental odors, visit www.atsdr.cdc.gov/odors. 

Personal hygiene and handwashing

Keeping hands clean during an emergency helps prevent the spread of germs. If your tap water is 

not safe to use, wash your hands with soap and water that has been boiled or disinfected. Follow 

these steps to make sure you wash your hands properly:

■ Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold) and apply soap.

■ Rub your hands together to make a lather and scrub them well; be sure to scrub the backs 

of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.

■ Continue rubbing your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy 

Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.

■ Rinse your hands well under running water.

■ Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

A temporary hand washing station can be created by using a large water jug that contains clean 

water (for example, boiled or disinfected).

Washing hands with soap and water is the best way to reduce the number of germs on them. If 

soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% 

alcohol. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers can quickly reduce the number of germs on hands in 

some situations, but sanitizers do not eliminate all types of germs.
16

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Hand sanitizers are not effective when hands are visibly dirty.

Bathing or showering after a water-related emergency should only be done with clean, safe water. 

Sometimes water that is not safe to drink can be used for bathing, but be careful not to swallow 

any water or get it in your eyes. Do not bathe in water that may be contaminated with sewage or 

toxic chemicals. This includes rivers, streams, or lakes that are contaminated by flood water.

If you have a drinking water well, listen to your local health authorities for advice on using your 

well water for showering and bathing. If extensive flooding has occurred or you suspect that 

your well water may be contaminated, contact your local, state, or tribal health department for 

specific advice on well testing and disinfection. 

For more information about how to personal hygiene, and hand washing during a disaster, visit: 

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/index.html. 

Diarrheal diseases

Eating or drinking anything contaminated by flood water can cause diarrheal disease (such as E. 

coli or Salmonella infection). To protect yourself and your family:

■ Practice good hygiene (handwashing with soap and water) after contact with flood waters.

■ Do not allow children to play in flood water areas.

■ Wash children’s hands with soap and water frequently (always before meals).

■ Do not allow children to play with toys that have been contaminated by flood water and 

have not been disinfected.

For information on how to prevent diarrheal diseases, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/disease/diarrhea-evac.html. 

For information on disinfecting certain nonporous toys, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/index.html. 

Tetanus

Guidance for tetanus-related questions in areas affected by hurricanes or flooding:

Protection against tetanus 

■ Vaccination prevents tetanus, however this does not last a lifetime. This means that if you 

were vaccinated before or had tetanus before, you still need to get vaccinated regularly 

to keep a high level of protection against this serious disease. Being up to date with your 

tetanus vaccine is the best tool to prevent tetanus. 

■ Tetanus vaccines are recommended for people of all ages. After a series of tetanus shots 

during childhood and adolescence, adults need a tetanus booster shot (Td) every 10 years. 

Td or the tetanus booster shot that add protection against pertussis, or whooping cough, 

(Tdap) can be used; getting Tdap instead of Td for one tetanus booster during adulthood is 

recommended to maintain protection against whooping cough.
17

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ If you have wounds, you should be evaluated for a tetanus immunization. If you receive 

a puncture wound or a wound contaminated with feces, soil, or saliva, have a health care 

professional determine whether a tetanus booster is necessary based on individual records.

Risk of tetanus after exposure to flood water

■ Exposure to flood waters does not increase the risk of tetanus. However, some people 

may have wounds such as punctures to the skin or nail sticks, cuts, bruises, lacerations, 

or scrapes (or other skin injuries) that become contaminated with flood waters, human 

or animal wastes, soil, dirt, or saliva. Besides treatment of these wounds, the vaccination 

status of such persons should be assessed and an age-appropriate tetanus vaccine given if 

needed. In some of these situations, the doctor or health care provider may decide that a 

tetanus vaccine is needed as early as 5 years since the last dose.

■ Being up to date for tetanus vaccine can greatly simplify the treatment for any wound that 

might occur.

Risk of tetanus to emergency responders, clean-up workers, volunteers

■ During evacuation and flood cleanup, emergency responders, cleanup workers, or 

volunteers may be at increased risk for wounds (as named above). For this reason, such 

workers should be sure that they are up to date with tetanus vaccination, ideally before 

starting evacuation or cleanup activities.

■ Being up to date for tetanus vaccine can greatly simplify the treatment for any wound that 

might occur. 

Mass vaccination campaigns to prevent tetanus during flooding are not needed

■ Tetanus immunization campaigns for evacuees from flooding disasters are generally 

not needed. However, each state and local health departments may determine that a 

vaccination effort is warranted based on local considerations. 

For more information about tetanus, visit https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/disease/tetanus.html.

Wound infections

Open wounds and rashes exposed to flood waters can become infected. To protect 

yourself and your family

■ Avoid contact with flood waters if you have an open wound.

■ Cover clean, open wounds with a waterproof bandage to reduce chance of infection.

■ Keep open wounds as clean as possible by washing well with soap and clean water.

■ Seek immediate medical care if a wound develops redness, swelling, oozing, or if you have 

other signs of infection such as fever, increasing pain, shortness of breath, confusion, 

disorientation or high heart rate.

The risk for injury during and after a hurricane, flooding, and other natural disasters is high. 

Prompt first aid can help heal small wounds and prevent infection. Wash your hands with 

soap and water before and after providing first aid for a wound to help prevent infection. 
18

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol if soap and water are not 

available. Tetanus, other bacterial infections, and fungal infections are potential health threats 

for persons who have open wounds.

Seek medical attention as soon as possible if

■ There is a foreign object (soil, wood, metal, or other objects) embedded in the wound;

■ A wound is a result of an animal bite;

■ A wound is the result of a puncture by a dirty object; 

■ The wound is infected (increased pain and soreness, swelling, redness, draining, or you 

develop a fever);

■ You have signs of sepsis such as confusion or disorientation, shortness of breath, high 

heart rate, fever or shivering, extreme pain or discomfort or clammy or sweaty skin.

Take care of wounds 

■ Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and clean water, if possible.

■ Avoid touching the wound with your fingers while treating it (if possible, use 

disposable gloves).

■ Remove obstructive jewelry and clothing from the injured body part.

■ Apply direct pressure to any bleeding wound to control bleeding.

■ Clean the wound after bleeding has stopped. 

» Examine wounds for dirt and foreign objects.

» Gently flood the wound with bottled water or clean running water (if available, saline 

solution is preferred).

» Gently clean around the wound with soap and clean water.

» Pat dry and apply an adhesive bandage or dry clean cloth.

■ Leave unclean wounds, bites, and punctures open. Wounds that are not cleaned correctly 

can trap bacteria and result in infection.

■ Provide pain relievers when possible.

■ Check on wound every 24 hours. 

Other considerations 

■ Expect a variety of infection types from wounds exposed to standing water, sea life, and 

ocean water.

■ Wounds in contact with soil and sand can become infected.

■ Puncture wounds can carry bits of clothing and dirt into wounds and result in infection

■ Crush injuries are more likely to become infected than wounds from cuts.

■ Take steps to prevent tetanus. (See tetanus section.)

For more information about wound care after a disaster, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/woundcare.html.
19

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Food and water safety after a storm

Food may not be safe to eat during and after an emergency. Safe water for drinking, cooking, 

and personal hygiene includes bottled, boiled, or treated water. Your state, local, or tribal health 

department can make specific recommendations for boiling or treating water in your area.

Throw away food that may have come in contact with flood or storm water, perishable foods, and 

those with an unusual odor, color, or texture. When in doubt, throw it out.

Do not use water you suspect or have been told is contaminated to wash dishes, brush your 

teeth, wash and prepare food, wash your hands, make ice, or make baby formula.

Food

Foodborne illness, or food poisoning, is a risk from food contaminated from flood water and 

from perishable food not held at a safe temperature due to power outages. If foods of animal 

origin, especially raw meat and poultry, have not been held at a safe temperature, germs already 

present can grow to high numbers. Other foods not held at the right temperature can also spoil. 

Do the following with food and containers that may have had contact with flood or 

storm water.

Throw away the following foods 

■ Food that has an unusual odor, color, or texture. When in doubt, throw it out.

■ Perishable foods (including meat, poultry, fish, eggs and leftovers) in your refrigerator when 

the power has been off for 4 hours or more. 

■ Canned foods or food containers that are bulging, opened, or damaged. Throw away 

the food if the container spurts liquid or foam when you open it or the food inside is 

discolored, moldy, or smells bad.

■ Food not in packages or cans.

■ Packaged food: Throw away food containers with screw-caps, snap-lids, crimped caps, twist 

caps, flip tops, and snap-open tops, as well as home-canned foods because they cannot 

be disinfected. Throw away food in cardboard containers, including juice, milk, or baby 

formula boxes.

Thawed food that contains ice crystals can be refrozen or cooked. Freezers, if left unopened and 

full during a power outage, will keep food safe for 48 hours (24 hours if half full).

How to reuse commercially prepared cans and retort pouches (like flexible, shelf-stable 

juice and seafood packages)

■ Remove labels if they are removable.

■ Brush or wipe away dirt or silt.

■ Wash cans and pouches with soap and water, using hot water if available.
20

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ Rinse cans and pouches with water that is safe for drinking, if available.

■ Sanitize cans and pouches in one of two ways. 1.) Place them in a solution of 1 cup (8 

ounces/250 milliliters) of bleach in 5 gallons of water for 15 minutes. OR 2.) Submerge in a 

pot of water, bring to a boil, and continue boiling for 2 minutes. 

■ Re-label cans or pouches with a marker. Include the expiration date.

■ Use food in reconditioned cans or pouches as soon as possible.

Store food safely

■ While the power is out, keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible.

Feeding infants and young children

■ Breastfed infants should continue breastfeeding. For formula-fed infants, use ready-tofeed formula if possible. If using ready-to-feed formula is not possible, it is best to use 

bottled water to prepare powdered or concentrated formula when your tap water is unsafe. 

If bottled water is not available, check with local authorities to find the status of your 

drinking water to see if boiling it will make it safe to drink. Use treated water to prepare 

formula only if you do not have bottled or boiled water.

■ If water is contaminated with a chemical, boiling it will not remove the chemical or make 

it safe to consume. 

■ If you prepare formula with boiled water, let the formula cool sufficiently before giving it to 

an infant. Put a couple drops of formula on the back of your hand to see if it is too hot.

■ Clean feeding bottles with bottled, boiled, or treated water before each use. Throw out 

bottle nipples or pacifiers that have been in contact with flood waters.

■ Wash your hands before preparing formula and before feeding an infant. You can use 

alcohol-based hand sanitizer for sanitizing your hands if water is not available for 

handwashing.

Clean and sanitize food-contact surfaces

Throw out wooden cutting boards, baby bottle nipples, and pacifiers if they have come into 

contact with flood waters because they cannot be properly sanitized. Clean and sanitize foodcontact surfaces in a four-step process:

1. Wash with soap and warm, clean water.

2. Rinse with clean water.

3. Sanitize by immersing for 1 minute in a solution of 1 cup (8 ounces or 250 milliliters) of 

chlorine bleach (5.25%, unscented) in 5 gallons of clean water.

4. Allow to air dry.

Note: Do not use your fireplace for cooking until the chimney has been inspected for cracks and 

damage. Sparks may escape into your attic through an undetected crack and start a fire.

For more information about how to keep food safe during a disaster, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/foodwater/facts.html.
21

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Water

Safe drinking water

■ After an emergency, especially after flooding, drinking water may not be available or safe 

to drink for personal use. 

■ Do not use water you suspect or have been told is contaminated to wash dishes, brush 

your teeth, wash and prepare food, make ice, or make baby formula.

■ Alcohol dehydrates the body, which increases the need for drinking water.

■ Floods and other disasters can damage drinking water wells and lead to aquifer and well 

contamination. Flood waters can contaminate well water, rivers, streams, and lakes with 

livestock waste, human sewage, chemicals, and other contaminants which can lead to 

illness when used for drinking, bathing, and other hygiene activities.

Make water safe

Water often can be made safe to drink by boiling, adding disinfectants, or filtering.

IMPORTANT: Water contaminated with fuel or toxic chemicals will not be made safe by boiling 

or disinfection. Use a different source of water if you know or suspect that water might be 

contaminated with fuel or toxic chemicals.

Boil water

If you don’t have safe bottled water, you should boil water to make it safe. Boiling is the surest 

method to make water safer to drink by killing disease-causing organisms, including viruses, 

bacteria, and parasites.

You can improve the flat taste of boiled water by pouring it from one clean, disinfected container 

to another and then allowing it to stand for a few hours, OR by adding a pinch of salt for each 

quart or liter of boiled water.

If the water is cloudy

■ Filter it through a clean cloth, paper towel, or coffee filter OR allow it to settle.

■ Draw off the clear water.

■ Bring the clear water to a rolling boil for one minute (at elevations above 6,500 feet, boil for 

three minutes).

■ Let the boiled water cool.

■ Store the boiled water in clean sanitized containers with tight covers.

If the water is clear

■ Bring the clear water to a rolling boil for one minute (at elevations above 6,500 feet, boil for 

three minutes).

■ Let the boiled water cool.

■ Store the boiled water in clean sanitized containers with tight covers.
22

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Disinfectants

If you don’t have clean, safe, bottled water and if boiling is not possible, you often can make 

water safer to drink by using a disinfectant, such as unscented household chlorine bleach, iodine, 

or chlorine dioxide tablets. These can kill most harmful organisms, such as viruses and bacteria. 

However, only chlorine dioxide tablets are effective in controlling more resistant organisms, 

such as the parasite Cryptosporidium. If the water is contaminated with a chemical, adding a 

disinfectant will not make it drinkable.

To disinfect water

Bleach comes in different concentrations. Make sure you know the concentration of bleach you 

are using before using to disinfect drinking water. It should be on the label.

■ Clean and disinfect water containers properly before each use. Use containers that are 

approved for water storage. Do not use containers previously used to store chemicals or 

other hazardous materials.

■ Filter water through a clean cloth, paper towel, or coffee filter OR allow it to settle, then 

draw off the clear water.

When using 5–6% unscented liquid household chlorine bleach: 

■ Add a little less than 1/8 teaspoon (8 drops or about 0.5 milliliters) for each gallon of clear 

water (or 2 drops of bleach for each liter or each quart of clear water).

■ If you do not have clear water or are not able to filter the water to make it clear, add a little 

less than 1⁄4 teaspoon (16 drops, or about 1 milliliter) of bleach for each gallon of cloudy 

water (or 4 drops of bleach for each liter or each quart of cloudy water). Stir the mixture 

well.

■ Let it stand for at least 30 minutes before using.

■ Store the disinfected water in clean, disinfected containers with tight covers.

When using 8.25% unscented liquid household chlorine bleach: 

■ Add a little less than 1/8 teaspoon (6 drops or about 0.5 milliliters) of unscented liquid 

household chlorine (8.25%) bleach for each gallon of clear water (or 2 drops of bleach for 

each liter or each quart of clear water). 

■ If you do not have clear water or are not able to filter the water to make it clear, add 12 

drops (about 1 milliliter) of bleach for each gallon of cloudy water (or 3 drops of bleach for 

each liter or each quart of cloudy water).

Filters

Many portable water filters can remove disease-causing parasites such as Cryptosporidium and 

Giardia from drinking water. 

■ If you are choosing a portable water filter, try to pick one that has a filter pore size small 

enough to remove both bacteria and parasites. Most portable water filters do not remove 

bacteria or viruses.
23

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ Carefully read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the water filter. After 

filtering, add a disinfectant such as iodine, chlorine, or chlorine dioxide to the filtered water 

to kill any viruses and remaining bacteria. 

For more information on how to make water safe in an emergency, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/index.html.

Cleaning and preparing personal water storage containers

Choosing a container

When preparing safe water, it is best to use food grade water storage containers, such as those 

found at surplus or camping supply stores.

If you are not able to use a food grade water storage container, be sure the container you choose:

■ Has a top that can be closed tightly

■ Is made of durable, unbreakable materials (for example, not glass)

DO NOT USE containers that previously have been used to hold liquid or solid toxic chemicals 

(for example, bleach pesticides).

■ A food grade water storage container is one that will not transfer noxious or toxic 

substances into the water it is holding. If you are uncertain whether a package type is 

food grade you can contact the manufacturer. Ask if that particular container is (U.S.) FDA 

approved, meaning that it is safe for food use.

Cleaning a water storage container before use 

Before filling with safe water, use these steps to clean and sanitize water storage containers:

1. Wash the storage container with dishwashing soap and water and rinse completely with 

clean water.

2. Sanitize the container with a solution made by mixing 1 teaspoon of unscented liquid 

household chlorine bleach in one quart of water.

3. Cover the container and shake it well so that the sanitizing bleach solution touches all 

inside surfaces of the container.

4. Wait at least 30 seconds and then pour the sanitizing solution out of the container.

5. Let the empty sanitized container air-dry before use OR rinse the empty container with 

clean, safe water that is available already.

Storing safe water in a container

■ Label container as “drinking water” and include storage date.

■ Replace stored water every six months.

■ Keep stored water in a place with a fairly constant cool temperature (50-70° F).

■ Do not store water containers in direct sunlight.

■ Do not store water containers in areas where toxic substances, such as gasoline or 

pesticides, are present.
24

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Finding emergency water sources

Alternative sources of clean water can be found inside and outside the home. DO NOT DRINK 

water that has an unusual odor or color, or that you know or suspect might be contaminated 

with fuel or toxic chemicals; use a different source of water.

The following are possible sources of water:

■ Water from your home’s water heater tank (part of your drinking water system, not your 

home heating system)

■ Melted ice cubes made with water that was not contaminated

■ Water from your home’s toilet tank (not from the bowl), if it is clear and has not been 

chemically treated with toilet cleaners such as those that change the color of the water

■ Liquid from canned fruit and vegetables

■ Water from swimming pools and spas can be used for personal hygiene, cleaning, and 

related uses, but not for drinking

Listen to reports from local officials for advice on water precautions in your home. It may be 

necessary to shut off the main water valve to your home to prevent contaminants from entering 

your piping system.

Outside the home

Flood waters can contaminate well water and rivers, streams, and lakes with livestock waste, 

human sewage, chemicals, and other contaminants which can lead to illness when used for 

drinking, bathing, and other hygiene activities.

Water from sources outside the home must be treated as described in Make Water Safe, because 

it could be contaminated with livestock waste or human sewage. If you suspect or know the 

water is contaminated with toxic chemicals or fuels, it cannot be made safe and you should not 

drink or bathe in this water. 

Possible sources of water that could be made safe by treatment include: 

■ Rainwater

■ Streams, rivers, and other moving bodies 

of water

■ Ponds and lakes

■ Natural springs

Note: DO NOT USE water that has been contaminated by fuels or toxic chemicals.

Unsafe water sources

Never use water from the following sources:

■ Radiators

■ Hot water boilers (part of your home heating system)

■ Water beds (fungicides added to the water or chemicals in the vinyl may make water 

unsafe for use)
25

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Private drinking water wells

Floods and other disasters can damage or contaminate wells. Dug wells, bored wells, and other 

wells less than 50 feet deep are more likely to be contaminated, even if damage is not apparent.

■ After a disaster, it is safest to drink bottled water until you are certain that your water is 

free of contaminants and safe to drink.

■ If extensive flooding has occurred or you suspect that the well may be contaminated, DO 

NOT drink the water. Use a safe water supply like bottled or treated water.

■ Contact your local, state, or tribal health department for specific advice on wells and 

testing.

IMPORTANT: Fuel and other chemical releases and spills are common during floods. 

■ Water contaminated with fuel or toxic chemicals will not be made safe by boiling or 

disinfection. Until you know the water is safe, use bottled water or some other safe supply 

of water.

■ If you suspect your water has fuel or chemical contamination, contact your local health 

department for specific advice.

For more information about emergency treatment for water wells, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/index.html.

Medications

Some drugs require refrigeration to keep their strength, including many liquid drugs. 

■ When the power is out for a day or more, throw away any medication that should be 

refrigerated, unless the drug’s label says otherwise. 

■ If a life depends on the refrigerated drug, but the medications have been at room 

temperature, use them only until a new supply is available. 

■ Replace all refrigerated drugs as soon as possible.

HHS’s Emergency Prescription Assistance Program (EPAP) is a free service that helps residents get 

medicine, medical supplies, medical equipment and vaccines that were lost, stolen, or damaged 

due to a disaster. HHS activates this service after some natural disasters. 

For more information about EPAP, visit 

https://www.phe.gov/Preparedness/planning/epap/Pages/default.aspx.

Stay safe in a shelter or in crowded living conditions

Follow safe hygiene and diapering recommendations when in a shelter. 

In emergency situations, making sure that diaper changing practices remain hygienic is essential 

to reducing the spread of germs. Even a microscopic amount of fecal matter can contain millions 

of germs. CDC has developed guidelines and checklists to help parents, childcare providers, 

emergency responders, and others learn how to practice safe and germ-free diaper changing in 

emergency situations.
26

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Emergency shelters should ensure accessibility for persons with disabilities, including people 

who use wheelchairs or scooters or who have difficulty walking, people who are deaf or hard-ofhearing, and people who are blind or have low vision. 

When planning for older adults, officials must ensure that shelter facilities meet the access and 

functional needs of this population. For example, shelters must: 

■ Be accessible to people who need help or certain accommodations to perform routine care 

or activities of daily living (for example, to use the bathroom, bathe, dress, groom, or get 

into and out of bed). 

■ Be accessible to people who have certain disabilities, such as those who use a wheelchair. 

■ Include signs and other forms of communication that can be understood by older adults.

■ Include energy sources for electricity (for example, generators), heating, and air 

conditioning. 

For more information about safe hygiene and diapering, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/index.html.

Body lice

Body lice are parasitic insects that live on clothing and bedding. Body lice can spread under 

crowded living conditions where hygiene is poor. Body lice are spread through direct physical 

contact with a person who has body lice or through contact with infested clothing, beds, bed 

linens, or towels.

The following are steps that can be taken to help prevent and control the spread of body lice:

■ Bathe regularly and change into properly washed clothes at least once a week; wash 

infested clothing at least once a week.

■ Machine wash and dry infested clothing and bedding using the hot water (at least 130°F) 

laundry cycle and the high heat drying cycle. Clothing and items that are not washable can 

be dry-cleaned OR sealed in a plastic bag and stored for 2 weeks.

■ Do not share clothing, beds, bedding, and towels used by a person who has body lice.

For more information about body lice, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/lice/body/index.html.

Scabies

Scabies is a skin condition caused by mites. It commonly leads to intense itching and a pimplelike skin rash that may affect various areas of the body. Scabies is contagious and can spread 

quickly in areas where people are in close physical contact.

Prevent scabies by avoiding skin-to-skin contact with a person who has scabies and contact with 

items such as clothing or bedding used by a person infested with scabies mites.

Scabies should be treated with topical creams that can kill the mites, which are available by 
27

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

prescription from your health care provider. In addition to the infested person, treatment is also 

recommended for people they have been in contact with.

Bedding, clothing, and towels used by infested persons and people they are in close contact with 

should be decontaminated. To disinfest items,

■ Wash them in hot water and dry in a hot dryer or dry-clean.

■ Store items that can’t be washed in a sealed plastic bag for at least 72 hours.

■ Thoroughly clean and vacuum rooms.

For more information about scabies, visit https://www.cdc.gov/parasites/scabies/.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis is contagious and can spread when people are staying in close quarters. Below is a 

list of ways to minimize the spread of conjunctivitis to other people.

 If you have conjunctivitis, you can help limit its spread to other people by following these steps:

■ Wash your hands often with soap and warm water. Wash them especially well before and 

after cleaning, or applying eye drops or ointment to, your infected eye. If soap and water 

are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol to 

clean hands. 

■ Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes. This can worsen the condition or spread it to your 

other eye.

■ With clean hands, wash any discharge from around your eye(s) several times a day using 

a clean, wet washcloth or fresh cotton ball. Throw away cotton balls after use, and wash 

used washcloths with hot water and detergent, then wash your hands again with soap and 

warm water.

■ Do not use the same eye drop dispenser or bottle for your infected and non-infected eyes.

■ Wash pillowcases, sheets, washcloths, and towels often in hot water and detergent; wash 

your hands after handling such items.

■ Stop wearing contact lenses until your eye doctor says it’s okay to start wearing 

them again.

■ Clean eyeglasses, being careful not to contaminate items (like hand towels) that might be 

shared by other people.

■ Clean, store, and replace your contact lenses as instructed by your eye doctor.

■ Do not share personal items, such as pillows, washcloths, towels, eye drops, eye or face 

makeup, makeup brushes, contact lenses, contact lens storage cases, or eyeglasses.

■ Do not use swimming pools.

If you are around someone with conjunctivitis, you can reduce your risk of infection by 

following these steps:

■ Wash your hands often with soap and warm water. If soap and warm water are not available, 

use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol to clean hands. 
28

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ Wash your hands after contact with an infected person or items he or she uses; for 

example, wash your hands after applying eye drops or ointment to an infected person’s 

eye(s) or after putting their bed linens in the washing machine.

■ Avoid touching your eyes with unwashed hands.

■ Do not share items used by an infected person; for example, do not share pillows, 

washcloths, towels, eye drops, eye or face makeup, makeup brushes, contact lenses, 

contact lens storage cases, or eyeglasses.

General information about conjunctivitis

■ Conjunctivitis—or pink eye—is common in adults and children. It spreads quickly and 

sometimes needs medical treatment, depending on the cause.

■ Several viruses and bacteria can cause conjunctivitis (pink eye). Both viral and bacterial 

conjunctivitis are highly contagious. Each of these types of germs can spread from person 

to person in different ways. They usually spread from an infected person to others through:

» Close personal contact, such as touching or shaking hands

» The air by coughing and sneezing

» Touching an object or surface with germs on it, then touching your eyes before washing 

your hands

Classic symptoms can include

■ Pink or red color in the white of the eye(s)

■ Watery eyes

■ Itchy or scratchy eyes

■ Discharge from the eye(s)

■ Crusting of eyelids or lashes

For more information on conjunctivitis, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/conjunctivitis/index.html.

RETURNING HOME

Return to your flooded home only after local authorities have told you it is safe to do so.

Cleaning and sanitizing your home

When returning to your home after a hurricane or flood, be aware that flood water may contain 

sewage and other hazards. Protect yourself and your family by following these steps:

■ Keep children and pets out of the affected area until cleanup has been completed.

■ Wear personal protective equipment, including rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles 

during cleanup of affected area.

■ While cleaning up areas with mold damage, wear a NIOSH-approved N-95 respirator, or 

one that provides even more protection. Look for N-95 on the package. Do not use N-95 

respirators on children. N-95 respirators do not fit children and will not protect them.
29

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ Remove and discard items that cannot be washed and disinfected (such as, mattresses, 

carpeting, carpet padding, rugs, upholstered furniture, cosmetics, stuffed animals, baby 

toys, pillows, foam-rubber items, books, wall coverings, and most paper products).

■ Remove and discard drywall and insulation that has been contaminated with sewage or 

flood waters. This should include material that are located a foot higher than the high 

water line.

■ Thoroughly clean all hard surfaces (such as flooring, concrete, molding, wood and metal 

furniture, countertops, appliances, sinks, and other plumbing fixtures) with hot water and 

laundry or dish detergent.

■ Help the drying process by using fans, air conditioning units, and dehumidifiers.

■ After completing the cleanup, wash your hands with soap and clean water. 

■ Wash all clothes worn during the cleanup in hot water and detergent. These clothes should 

be washed separately from uncontaminated clothes and linens.

■ Wash clothes contaminated with flood or sewage water in hot water and detergent. It 

is recommended that a laundromat be used for washing large quantities of clothes and 

linens until your onsite wastewater system has been professionally inspected and serviced.

■ Seek immediate medical attention if you become injured or ill.

Disinfect toys

Remember that anything that has had contact with flood water could carry germs. To keep your 

kids safe, make sure their toys are clean. Some toys cannot be cleaned, particularly those that 

have been in flood waters. When in doubt, throw toys out.

■ Make a cleaning fluid by mixing 1 cup of bleach in 5 gallons of water and wash off toys 

carefully with your cleaner.

■ If you have dishwasher-safe toys, they can be cleaned in a commercial dishwasher that 

has a dry cycle or a final rinse that exceeds 113°F for 20 minutes or 122°F for 5 minutes or 

162°F for 1 minute.

■ Once toys are cleaned, let them air dry.

■ Stuffed animals or cloth toys that were wet with flood water should be thrown out. 

For more information about how to safely return home after a disaster, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/mold/reenter.html.

Mold

After natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, and floods, excess moisture and standing 

water contribute to the growth of mold in homes and other buildings. When returning to a home 

that has been flooded, be aware that mold may be present and may be a health risk for your 

family.

If there is mold growth in your home, you should clean up the mold and fix any water problem, 

such as leaks in roofs, walls, or plumbing. Controlling moisture in your home is the most critical 
30

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

factor for preventing mold growth. Keep children and pets out of the affected area until cleanup 

has been completed.

People at greatest risk from mold

■ People with asthma, allergies, or other breathing conditions may be more sensitive to mold. 

■ People with a weakened immune system, such as people receiving treatment for cancer, 

people who have had an organ or stem cell transplant, and people taking medicines that 

suppress the immune system, are more likely to get a serious illness from mold.

■ If you have a breathing problem like asthma, a weakened immune system, or are pregnant, 

try not to enter a building with mold damage.

■ Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.

■ In some homes and schools it might be hard to get rid of all mold quickly, so children could 

be exposed to some mold. 

■ Children and adults with asthma or a weakened immune system should stay out of 

buildings with mold growth. 

■ For healthy children and adults mold exposure can lead to cough, wheeze, eye and skin 

irritation, and runny or stuffy nose. 

Possible health effects of mold exposure

■ People who are sensitive or allergic to mold may experience problems like asthma attacks, 

wheezing, stuffy nose, and irritated eyes and skin. 

■ Mold exposure can lead to severe infections in people with a weakened immune system.

■ If you or your family members have health problems after exposure to mold, contact your 

doctor or other health care provider.

Recognizing mold

You may recognize mold by:

■ Sight. Are the walls and ceiling discolored, or do they show signs of mold growth or 

water damage?

■ Smell. Do you smell a bad odor, such as a musty, earthy smell or a foul stench?

Safely preventing mold growth

■ Clean up and dry out the building as quickly as you can. 

■ Open doors and windows. 

■ Use fans to dry out the building. Position fans to blow air out doors or windows.

■ When in doubt, take it out! Remove all porous items that have been wet for more than 48 

hours and that cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried. These items can remain a source 

of mold growth and should be removed from the home. Porous, non-cleanable items 

include carpeting and carpet padding, upholstery, wallpaper, drywall, floor and ceiling tiles, 

insulation material, some clothing, leather, paper, wood, and food. 

■ Removal and cleaning are important because even dead mold may cause allergic reactions 

in some people.
31

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ To prevent mold growth, clean wet items and surfaces with detergent and water.

■ Homeowners may want to temporarily store items outside of the home until insurance 

claims can be filed. 

Cleaning up mold 

To remove mold growth from hard surfaces use commercial products, soap and water, or a 

bleach solution of no more than 1 cup of household laundry bleach in 1 gallon of water. Follow 

the manufacturers’ instructions for use (see product label). Use a stiff brush on rough surface 

materials such as concrete.

When removing mold

■ Never mix bleach with ammonia or other household cleaners. Mixing bleach with 

ammonia or other cleaning products will produce dangerous, toxic fumes.

■ Open windows and doors to provide fresh air.

■ Wear rubber boots, rubber gloves, and goggles during cleanup of affected area.

■ If the area to be cleaned is more than 10 square feet, consult guidance by the U.S. 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

■ Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using bleach or any other cleaning 

product.

■ Protect your nose and mouth against breathing in mold.

Before you enter a building with mold damage, wear at least a NIOSH-approved N-95 respirator, 

which you can buy at a home supply store. If you plan to spend a lot of time removing moldy 

belongings or doing work like ripping out moldy drywall, wear a half-face or full-face respirator. 

Make certain that you follow instructions on the package for fitting the mask respirator tightly 

to your face. N-95 respirators are only approved for filtering out dust in the air (for example, 

from sweeping, sawing, and mold removal). This type of respirator will not protect you against 

chemicals or gases in the air, such as cleaning products or carbon monoxide.

For more information about to safely enter and clean up a property with mold, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/mold/index.html.

Clean-up safely outside the home

■ Keep children and pets out of the affected area until cleanup has been completed.

■ Have your onsite waste-water system professionally inspected and serviced if you suspect 

damage.

■ Wash all clothes worn during the cleanup in hot water and detergent. These clothes should 

be washed separately from uncontaminated clothes and linens.

■ After completing the cleanup, wash your hands with soap and clean water.

■ Seek immediate medical attention if you become injured or ill. 

For more information about safe clean-up after a disaster, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/cleanup/facts.html.
32

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Solid waste management and debris removal

Solid waste results from various sources, such as animal wastes, hazardous wastes, industrial 

and non-infectious medical wastes, food wastes, mineral waste, and nonhazardous waste. 

Public health concerns regarding solid waste include aesthetics (for example, the visual 

appearance of many collection sites and odors associated with solid waste), the potential for 

groundwater contamination, an increase in vectors (rodents, insects, etc.) that may spread 

diseases, and other issues regarding sanitation. 

Follow the tips below when cleaning up solid waste and debris: 

■ Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (for example, hard hats, goggles, N95 

masks, heavy work gloves, waterproof boots with steel toe and insole, earplugs, longsleeved shirt, and long pants). 

■ Stay safe in hot weather by taking breaks in shaded areas, drinking water and nonalcoholic 

fluids often, and wear light and loose-fitted clothing. 

After an emergency, federal, state, and local personnel will be working to establish debrismanagement programs, including household hazardous waste collection and disposal programs. 

These efforts may take days or weeks to come to all communities. In the meantime, exercise 

caution and report concerns to local environmental, health, and waste disposal authorities. 

For more information about solid waste management, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/emres/burningdebris.html.

Chemical and oil exposures 

■ Use extreme caution when returning to your area after a flood. Be aware of potential 

chemical hazards you may encounter during flood recovery. Flood waters may have buried 

or moved hazardous chemical containers of solvents or other industrial chemicals from 

their normal storage places.

■ If any propane tanks (whether 20-lb. tanks from a gas grill or household propane tanks) 

are discovered in a previously flooded area, do not attempt to move them yourself. 

These represent a very real danger of fire or explosion, and if any are found, police or fire 

departments or your State Fire Marshal’s office should be contacted immediately.

■ Car batteries, even those in flood water, may still contain an electrical charge and should 

be removed with extreme caution by using insulated gloves. Avoid coming in contact with 

any acid that may have spilled from a damaged car battery.

■ Containers of dry chemicals that may have become wet due to flooding in your home or 

garage can be dangerous. When in doubt about how to safely handle these chemicals, 

contact your local fire department.
33

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Avoid oil spills

■ Crude oil is a mixture of chemicals that could be released into the environment during 

an emergency such as a hurricane and flood. In flood situations, some parts of the oil will 

float on water and can be seen as a film on the surface, and other parts will sink to the 

bottom. Other parts of the oil can become fumes in the air. People can come into contact 

with these chemicals by getting them on their skin or by breathing them in the air. If you 

notice oil in the water, stay away from it and contact local authorities or EPA at 1-800-424-

8802. Emergency responders and workers should use appropriate clothing and personal 

protective equipment when working in these hazardous conditions.

■ If you have come into contact with a chemical from a spill or accident and feel ill, seek 

medical attention immediately from a health care professional.

■ Your regional poison center is available 24/7 by calling 1-800-222-1222 to help assist you in 

determining if you should seek medical attention following a potential chemical exposure 

or for information on chemicals. 

■ Check with your state or local health department and news sources to determine 

if there are any known chemical spills in your area and up to date information on 

recommendations on how to protect yourself.

For information about chemical emergencies, visit 

https://emergency.cdc.gov/chemical/overview.asp.

MOSQUITOES AND HURRICANES

■ Adult mosquitoes do not generally survive high winds during a hurricane. 

■ Immediately following a hurricane, flooding may occur. Mosquito eggs laid in the soil by 

flood water mosquitoes during previous rain or floods hatch. This results in very large 

populations of flood water mosquitoes. Most of these mosquitoes are considered nuisance 

mosquitoes. 

■ In general, nuisance mosquitoes do not spread viruses that make people sick. The types of 

mosquitoes that can spread viruses may increase 2 weeks to 2 months after a hurricane, 

especially in areas that did not flood but received more rainfall than usual. 

■ In areas with Aedes aegypti mosquitoes and local spread of Zika, chikungunya, or dengue, 

increased rainfall may result in increased hatching of Ae. aegypti eggs from water-holding 

containers. People may be at more risk of getting infected with these viruses, and they 

should take steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites. 

■ Because people spend more time outside cleaning up after a hurricane or flood, they are 

more likely to be bitten by nuisance mosquitoes. 

■ Large numbers of nuisance mosquitoes can affect recovery efforts. For this reason, local or 

state mosquito control experts will often take steps to control these mosquitoes. 
34

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Prevent mosquito bites

The best way to prevent diseases spread by mosquitoes is to protect yourself and your family 

from mosquito bites.

■ Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants. 

■ Stay in places with air conditioning and window and door screens to keep 

mosquitoes outside. 

■ Treat your clothing and gear with permethrin or buy pre-treated items (except in Puerto 

Rico, where permethrin is not effective). 

■ Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents on exposed skin. 

Use a repellent with one of the following active ingredients: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, oil of 

lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone. 

» Always follow the product label instructions. 

» Reapply insect repellent as directed. 

» Do not spray repellent on the skin under clothing. 

» If you are also using sunscreen, apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second. 

For babies and children

■ Dress your child in clothing that covers arms and legs. 

■ Cover crib, stroller, and baby carrier with mosquito netting. 

■ See insect repellent recommendations for children below. 

Take steps to control mosquitoes inside and outside your home

■ After a hurricane or flood, the health department or mosquito control district will often 

take steps to reduce the mosquito population.

■ Residents can take steps to help control mosquitoes in and around their homes to prevent 

mosquito bites. 

For more information about to protect yourself and your family from mosquito bites, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/zika/prevention/prevent-mosquito-bites.html.

West nile

■ West Nile is a virus most commonly spread to people by mosquito bites. 

■ In North America, cases of West Nile virus (WNV) occur during mosquito season, which 

starts in the summer and continues through fall. 

■ WNV cases have been reported in all of the continental United States. 

■ There are no vaccines to prevent or medications to treat WNV. Fortunately, most people 

infected with WNV do not have symptoms. 

■ About 1 in 5 people who are infected develop a fever and other symptoms. 

■ About 1 out of 150 infected people develop a serious, sometimes fatal, illness. 
35

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ Though pregnant women are not at higher risk for WNV infection, they should take steps 

to prevent mosquito bites. 

For more information about West Nile virus, visit https://www.cdc.gov/westnile/index.html.

Dengue

■ Dengue is a disease caused by any one of four closely related dengue viruses (DENV 1, 

DENV 2, DENV 3, or DENV 4). 

■ The viruses are spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. 

■ It is estimated that there are over 100 million cases of dengue worldwide each year.

For more information about Dengue, visit https://www.cdc.gov/dengue/index.html.

Zika

■ Zika is a virus spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito (Ae. aegypti

and Ae. albopictus). 

■ It can also be passed through sex without a condom with an infected person, even if that 

person does not show symptoms. 

■ If a pregnant woman is infected with Zika virus, it can be passed to her fetus and potentially 

cause birth defects, including microcephaly and other severe fetal brain defects. 

■ Many people infected with Zika virus won’t have symptoms or will only have mild 

symptoms. For those who do have symptoms, they are usually mild and last for several 

days to a week. 

■ Signs and symptoms of Zika virus infection include fever, rash, headache, joint pain, 

conjunctivitis (red eyes), and muscle pain. 

■ No specific treatment is available for Zika virus disease. 

■ The best way to prevent Zika and other viruses spread by mosquitoes is to prevent 

mosquito bites. 

■ Condoms can reduce the chance of getting Zika from sex.

» Not having sex eliminates the risk of getting Zika from sex. 

For more information about Zika, visit https://www.cdc.gov/zika/index.html.

PREVENT INJURY AFTER A DISASTER

Power outages and electrical dangers

■ NEVER touch a fallen power line. Call the power company to report fallen power lines.

■ Do not walk or drive through standing water if downed power lines are in the water.

■ If you believe someone has been electrocuted, call or have someone else call 911 or 

emergency medical help.
36

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ After a hurricane, flood or other natural disaster you need to be careful to avoid electrical 

hazards both in your home and elsewhere.

■ Avoid contact with overhead power lines during cleanup and other activities.

If a power line falls across your car while you are driving, stay inside the vehicle and 

continue to drive away from the line. 

■ If the engine stalls, do not turn off the ignition. 

■ Warn people not to touch the car or the line.

■ Call or ask someone to call the local utility company and emergency services. 

■ Do not allow anyone other than emergency personnel to approach your vehicle.

If electrical circuits and electrical equipment have gotten wet or are in or near water, 

turn off the power at the main breaker or fuse on the service panel. 

■ Do not enter standing water to access the main power switch. 

■ Call an electrician to turn it off.

Never turn power on or off yourself or use an electric tool or appliance while standing 

in water. 

■ Do not turn the power back on until electrical equipment has been inspected by a qualified 

electrician. 

■ All electrical equipment and appliances must be completely dry before returning them to 

service. 

■ Have a certified electrician check these items if there is any question.

If you see frayed wiring or sparks when you restore power, or if there is an odor of something 

burning but no visible fire, you should immediately shut off the electrical system at the main 

circuit breaker.

Consult your utility company about using electrical equipment, including power 

generators. 

■ Do not connect generators to your home’s electrical circuits without the approved, 

automatic-interrupt devices. 

■ If a generator is on line when electrical service is restored, it can become a major fire 

hazard and it may endanger line workers helping to restore power in your area.

If you believe someone has had electric shock take the following steps:

■ Look first. Don’t touch. The person may still be in contact with the electrical source. 

Touching the person may pass the current through you.

■ Call or have someone else call 911 or emergency medical help.

■ Turn off the source of electricity if possible. If not, move the source away from you and the 

affected person using a non-conducting object made of cardboard, plastic or wood.

■ Once the person is free of the source of electricity, check the person’s breathing and 
37

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

pulse. If either has stopped or seems dangerously slow or shallow, begin cardiopulmonary 

resuscitation (CPR) immediately.

■ If the person is faint or pale or shows other signs of shock, lay him or her down with the 

head slightly lower than the trunk of the body and the legs elevated.

■ Don’t touch burns, break blisters, or remove burned clothing. Electrical shock may cause 

burns inside the body, so be sure the person is taken to a doctor.

For more information about how to stay safe when the power goes out, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/poweroutage/needtoknow.html.

Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death if 

inhaled.

When power outages occur during emergencies such as hurricanes or winter storms, the use of 

alternative sources of fuel or electricity for heating, cooling, or cooking can cause CO to build up 

in a home, garage, or camper and to poison the people and animals inside.

Every year, more than 400 people die in the U. S. from accidental CO poisoning.

Exposure to CO can cause loss of consciousness and death. The most common symptoms of CO 

poisoning are headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea, vomiting, chest pain, and confusion. People 

who are sleeping or who have been drinking alcohol can die from CO poisoning before ever 

having symptoms.

Important CO poisoning prevention tips

■ Never use a generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine inside your home, 

basement, or garage or less than 20 feet from any window, door, or vent of your home or 

your neighbor’s home.

■ When using a generator, use a battery-powered or battery backup CO detector in your 

home.

■ Never use a gas range or oven to heat a home.

■ Never leave the motor running in a vehicle parked in an enclosed or partially enclosed 

space, such as a garage.

■ Never run a generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine inside a basement, 

garage, or other enclosed structure, even if the doors or windows are open, unless the 

equipment is professionally installed and vented. Keep vents and flues free of debris, 

especially if winds are high. Flying debris can block ventilation lines.

■ Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern, or portable camping stove inside a home, tent, 

or camper.

■ If conditions are too hot or too cold, seek shelter with friends or at a community shelter.

■ If CO poisoning is suspected, move to outside air, call 911 or your local Poison Control 

Center at 1-800-222-1222 or consult a health care professional right away.
38

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Businesses can help ensure your customers’ safety by placing important information about 

protecting oneself from CO poisoning in the direct vicinity of generators they are selling. 

For more information about how to prevent CO poisoning, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/co/guidelines.htm.

Chainsaw safety

Stay safe while using a chainsaw 

■ Wear proper protective clothing and glasses.

■ Choose the proper size of chain saw to match the job.

■ Operate, adjust, and maintain the saw according to manufacturer’s instructions.

■ Take extra care in cutting “spring poles” trees or branches that have been bent, twisted, 

hung up on, or caught under another object during a high wind.

■ Be sure that bystanders are at a safe distance from cutting activities.

■ Check around the tree or pole for hazards, such as nails, power lines, or cables, before 

cutting.

For more information about how to prevent chainsaw injuries, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/chainsaws.html.

Animal hazards

Avoid wild or stray animals

■ Call local authorities to handle animals.

■ Secure all food sources and remove any animal carcasses to avoid attracting rats.

■ Get rid of dead animals, according to guidelines from your local animal control authority, 

as soon as you can. 

■ For more information, contact your local animal shelter or services, a veterinarian, or 

the Humane Society for advice on dealing with pets or stray or wild animals after an 

emergency. 

Prevent contact with rodents

After a disaster, surviving rodents often relocate to new areas in search of food, water,

and shelter.

Removing food sources, water, and items that provide shelter for rodents is the best way to 

prevent contact with rodents. Where necessary, control rodents by using an integrated pest 

management approach that includes environmental sanitation, proper food storage, rodentproofing, trapping, and poisoning.
39

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Inside the home

■ Keep food and water covered and stored in rodent-proof containers. A rodent-proof 

container is made of thick plastic, glass, or metal and has a tight-fitting lid.

■ Keep pet food covered and stored in rodent-proof containers. Allow pets only enough food 

for each meal, then store or throw out any remaining food. Do not leave excess pet food or 

water out overnight.

■ Dispose of garbage on a frequent and regular basis. If storing trash and food waste inside 

the home, do so in rodent-proof containers.

■ Wash dishes, pans, and cooking utensils immediately after use.

■ Remove leftover food and clean up any spilled food from cooking and eating areas.

■ Do not store empty cans or other opened containers with food residues inside the home.

■ When possible, use spring-loaded traps in the home and outside buildings. Use a small 

amount of chunky peanut butter or other available food as bait. (Remember, you are more 

likely to be successful trapping rodents if your home is free of other easily accessible food 

items.) Place traps in a “T” shape against baseboards or wall surfaces where rodent rub 

marks, droppings, or rodents have been seen. Keep children and pets away from areas 

where traps are placed.

■ Glue traps and live traps are not recommended. Glue traps mainly catch juvenile rodents, 

not breeding adults. Rodents caught in live traps and released will likely reenter the home.

Outside the home

■ Dispose of debris and trash as soon as possible. Store woodpiles and stacks of lumber or 

other materials at least 12 inches above the ground and as far away from the home as 

possible.

■ Store garbage in rodent-proof containers with tight fitting lids.

■ Store grains and animal feed in rodent-proof containers.

■ Remove any food sources, including animal carcasses, which might attract rodents.

■ Haul away trash, abandoned vehicles, discarded tires, and other items that might serve as 

rodent nesting sites.

■ Keep grass short and cut or remove brush and dense shrubbery that may provide rodents 

cover and protection.

■ Trim tree limbs or shrubs that overhang or touch buildings.

■ Place spring-loaded traps in outbuildings and in other areas where signs of rodents are 

found. Do not allow children or pets to play near spring traps.

Rodent-proofing your home

Rats can enter the home through holes the size of a quarter. Mice can enter through a hole the 

size of a dime. Seal gaps and holes inside and outside the home that are greater than a 1⁄4-inch 

diameter with any of the following materials:
40

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ Cement or cement mortar,

■ 19-gauge or greater metal mesh, wire screening, or hardware cloth (1/4-inch or less spacing 

is preferred),

■ steel wool,

■ heavy-duty caulk or elastomeric sealant, or

■ expanding foam.

For more information about controlling rodent exposure after a disaster, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/rodents.html.

Prevent or respond to a snake bite

■ Be aware of snakes that may be swimming in the water to get to higher ground and those 

that may be hiding under debris or other objects.

■ If you see a snake, back away from it slowly and do not touch it.

■ If you or someone you know are bitten, try to see and remember the color and shape of the 

snake, which can help with treatment of the snake bite.

■ Keep the bitten person still and calm. This can slow down the spread of venom if the snake 

is poisonous. Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Dial 911 or call local Emergency 

Medical Services. Poison Control Centers can also be a source of help and can be reached at 

1-800-222-1222. Apply first aid if you cannot get the person to the hospital right away. Lay 

or sit the person down with the bite below the level of the heart.

» Tell him or her to stay calm and still.

» Cover the bite with a clean, dry dressing.

For more information on how to prevent or respond to a snake bite, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/snakebite.html. 

Rabies

The most important source of rabies in humans is from uncontrolled rabies in dogs. Mongooses 

can also transmit rabies to humans, as well as other mammals like cats, bats, and livestock.

Rabies is transmitted through saliva and nervous system tissue of an infected animal, when it is 

in contact with a person’s bite wound, open cuts in skin or mucous membranes (mouth, eyes). 

Petting or handling an animal, or contact with animal blood, urine or feces does not transmit 

rabies. 

Rabies in humans is 100% preventable through prompt appropriate medical care. Take the 

following steps if a dog, mongoose or other animal bites you:

■ Wash any wounds immediately with soap and water.

■ See your doctor for medical attention. You may be given a post exposure anti-rabies 

vaccination.

■ Report the bite to your doctor and the local department of health.

■ If a domestic dog, cat, or ferret bit you, the animal should be confined and observed for 

10 days.
41

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ Any illness in the animal during the confinement period should be evaluated by a 

veterinarian and reported immediately to the local public health department.

For more information about rabies, visit www.cdc.gov/rabies.

Plague

There are reports that flood waters bring a danger of plague. This is FALSE. Plague is rare in the 

United States. It is spread through fleas, not flood water. 

For more information about plague, visit https://www.cdc.gov/plague/.

Landslides and mudslides

■ Landslides occur when masses of rock, earth, or debris move down a slope. 

■ Debris flows, also known as mudslides, are a common type of fast-moving landslide that 

tends to flow in channels.

■ Landslides are caused by disturbances in the natural stability of a slope. They can 

accompany heavy rains or follow droughts, earthquakes, or volcanic eruptions. 

■ Mudslides develop when water rapidly accumulates in the ground and results in a surge of 

water-saturated rock, earth, and debris. Mudslides usually start on steep slopes and can be 

activated by natural disasters. 

■ Areas where wildfires or human modification of the land have destroyed vegetation on 

slopes are particularly vulnerable to landslides during and after heavy rains.

Health threats from landslides and debris flows

In the United States, landslides and debris flows result in 25 to 50 deaths each year. The health 

hazards associated with landslides and mudflows include:

■ Rapidly moving water and debris that can lead to trauma;

■ Broken electrical, water, gas, and sewage lines that can result in injury or illness; and

■ Disrupted roadways and railways that can endanger motorists and disrupt transport and 

access to health care.

Some areas are more likely to experience landslides or mudflows, including:

■ Areas where wildfires or human modification of the land have destroyed vegetation;

■ Areas where landslides have occurred before;

■ Steep slopes and areas at the bottom of slopes or canyons;

■ Slopes that have been altered for construction of buildings and roads;

■ Channels along a stream or river; and

■ Areas where surface runoff is directed.

Protect yourself before intense storms and rainfall

■ Assume that steep slopes and areas burned by wildfires are vulnerable to landslides and 

debris flows.
42

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ Learn whether landslides or debris flows have occurred previously in your area by 

contacting local authorities, a county geologist or the county planning department, state 

geological surveys or departments of natural resources, or university departments of 

geology.

■ Contact local authorities about emergency and evacuation plans.

■ Develop emergency and evacuation plans for your family and business.

■ Develop an emergency communication plan in case family members are separated.

■ If you live in an area vulnerable to landslides, consider leaving it.

Protect yourself during intense storms and rainfall

■ Listen to the radio or watch TV for warnings about intense rainfall or for information and 

instructions from local officials.

■ Be aware of any sudden increase or decrease in water level on a stream or creek that might 

indicate debris flow upstream. A trickle of flowing mud may precede a larger flow.

■ Look for tilted trees, telephone poles, fences, or walls, and for new holes or bare spots on 

hillsides.

■ Listen for rumbling sounds that might indicate an approaching landslide or mudflow.

■ Be alert when driving. Roads may become blocked or closed due to collapsed pavement or 

debris.

■ If landslide or debris flow danger is imminent, quickly move away from the path of the 

slide. Getting out of the path of a debris flow is your best protection. Move to the nearest 

high ground in a direction away from the path. If rocks and debris are approaching, run for 

the nearest shelter and take cover (if possible, under a desk, table, or other piece of sturdy 

furniture).

Protect yourself after a landslide or debris flow

■ Stay away from the site. Flooding or additional slides may occur after a landslide or 

mudflow.

■ Check for injured or trapped people near the affected area, if it is possible to do so without 

entering the path of the landslide or mudflow.

■ Listen to the radio or TV for emergency information.

■ Report broken utility lines to the appropriate authorities.

■ Consult a geotechnical expert (a registered professional engineer with soils engineering 

expertise) for advice on reducing additional landslide problems and risks. Local authorities 

should be able to tell you how to contact a geotechnical expert.

For more information about landslides and mudslides, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/landslides.html.
43

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Coping with disaster

SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Hotline: 1-800-985-5990 (Deaf/hearing impaired can use 

your preferred relay service to call 1-800-985-5990) or text TalkWithUs to 66746.

It is natural to feel stress, anxiety, grief, and worry during and after a disaster. Everyone will 

react differently and your own feelings will change throughout the emergency response. Notice 

and accept how you feel. Taking care of your emotional health during an emergency will help 

you think clearly and react to the urgent needs to protect yourself and your family during an 

emergency. Self-care during an emergency will help your long-term healing.

Look out for these common signs of distress:

■ Feelings of shock, numbness, and disbelief

■ Changes in energy and activity levels

■ Difficulty concentrating

■ Changes in appetite

■ Sleeping problems

■ Nightmares and upsetting thoughts and images

■ Feeling anxious or fearful

■ Physical reactions, such as headaches, body pains, stomach problems, and skin rashes

■ Chronic health problems can get worse

■ Changes in use of alcohol, tobacco, or other drugs

■ Anger or short-temper

If you experience these feelings or behaviors for several days in a row and are unable to carry out 

normal responsibilities because of them, seek professional help.

Take the following steps to cope with a disaster: 

■ Stay informed. When you feel that you are missing information, you may become more 

stressed or anxious. Watch, listen to, or read the news for updates from officials. Be aware 

that there may be rumors during a crisis. Turn to reliable sources of information.

■ Take care of your body. Eat healthy well-balanced meals, exercise regularly, get plenty of 

sleep, and avoid alcohol, tobacco and other drugs. Learn more about wellness strategies for 

mental health.

■ Take breaks. Make time to unwind and remind yourself that strong feelings will fade. Take 

breaks from watching, reading, or listening to news stories. It can be upsetting to hear 

about the crisis and see images repeatedly. Try to do some other activities you enjoy to 

return to your normal life and check for updates between breaks.

■ Connect with others. Share your concerns and how you are feeling with a friend or family 

member. Maintain healthy relationships and build a strong support system. 

■ Seek help when needed. If distress is impacting activities of your daily life for several days 

or weeks, talk to a clergy member, counselor, or doctor or contact the SAMHSA helpline. 
44

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

» Call 1-800-985-5990; Deaf/hearing impaired can use your preferred relay service to call 

1-800-985-5990.

» Text TalkWithUs to 66746.

» Spanish speakers in the U.S. mainland can call 1-800-985-5990 or text 

HABLANOS to 66746.

» Spanish speakers in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands can call or text 

HABLANOS to 1-212-461-4635.

For more information about coping after a disaster, visit 

https://emergency.cdc.gov/coping/index.asp.

Feelings of depression or suicidal thoughts

After a natural disaster, it is normal to feel sad, mad, or guilty—you may have lost a great deal. 

Your coping skills may change during periods of crisis and heightened stress, limiting your 

normal ability to effectively solve problems and cope. Stay in touch with family and friends, find 

a support network, and talk with a counselor. Getting involved with others can help. 

If you or someone you know feels like completely giving up or are having thoughts of suicide, 

get help. Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255) 

or use the online Lifeline Crisis Chat. If you are calling from Puerto Rico, call the emergency 

Primera Ayuda Sicosocial (PAS) line at 1-800-981-0023. Both are free and confidential. You will be 

connected to a skilled, trained counselor in your area. 

For more information about the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, visit 

https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/.

Helping children cope

Children and youth may also have a difficult time during or after an emergency. Some young 

people react right away, while others may show signs of difficulty much later. Take time to talk to 

your children about the disaster, limit their exposure to media coverage of the event, including 

social media, and as soon as possible, return to and maintain a healthy routine.

Children may not say how they are feeling during a crisis. Explain the situation, answer 

questions, and reassure them they are loved. 

Children are less likely to say that they are feeling stressed but will show signs through their 

behaviors. Infants and young children may cry more than usual, want to be held more, and 

become fearful about being separated from their parent or caregiver. Adolescents and teenagers 

may deny that they are upset or may do more risky things.

The following are some ways to help children cope:

■ Set a good example. Take care of yourself, including exercising and practicing healthy 

eating habits.
45

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ Encourage children to ask questions. Get down at eye level and speak in a calm, gentle 

voice using words they can understand.

■ Maintain a strong connection and show them they are loved.

■ Listen for any rumors children might hear at school or on social media and help explain 

the correct information to them.

■ Tell children it is normal to be upset. Let them know that it’s not their fault.

For more information about how to help children cope, visit https://www.samhsa.gov/.

IMMUNIZATIONS

Recommendations following disaster

In addition to the vaccines given routinely as part of the child, adolescent, and adult schedules, 

the following vaccines should be given to evacuees living in crowded group settings, unless the 

person has written documentation of having already received them:

■ Influenza: everyone 6 months of age or older should receive influenza vaccine. 

■ Varicella: everyone 12 months of age or older should receive one dose of this vaccine 

unless they have a documented record of immunization or documentation of health care 

provider diagnosis of chickenpox or shingles.

■ MMR: everyone 12 months of age or older and born during or after 1957 should receive 

one dose of this vaccine unless they have a documented record of 2 doses of MMR or other 

evidence of immunity.

Hepatitis A vaccine should not routinely be necessary for evacuees living in crowded group 

settings, unless otherwise indicated. Although hepatitis A vaccine is recommended for all 

children in the U.S. aged 12-23 months, evacuation itself is not a specific indication for hepatitis 

A vaccination of previously unvaccinated children per se unless exposure to hepatitis A virus 

is suspected. Persons who evacuate their homes under orderly conditions at the advisement 

of state or local officials to a congregate setting where sanitary conditions prevail should not 

require hepatitis A vaccine, unless they have been evacuated from an area where exposure to 

hepatitis A virus is likely or have been exposed to persons with suspected or proven hepatitis A 

infection.

Immunocompromised individuals, such as persons with severe immunosuppression 

associated with HIV infection, pregnant women, and those on systemic steroids or other 

immunosuppressive medications, should not receive the live viral vaccines, varicella and MMR. 

Screening should be performed by self-report.

For more information about the Interim Immunization Recommendations for Individuals 

Displaced, visit https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/disease/vaccrecdisplaced.html.

For more information about the schedules of routinely recommended immunization, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/schedules/easy-to-read/index.html.
46

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Impact of power outage on vaccine storage

In areas where vaccine supplies are affected by temporary power outages, the guidance 

developed for providers during the 2003 Northeast Power Outage may be helpful:

■ Do not open freezers and refrigerators until power is restored.

■ Most refrigerated vaccines are relatively stable at room temperature for limited periods of 

time. The vaccines of most concern are MMR and Varivax, which are sensitive to elevated 

temperatures.

■ Monitor temperatures; don’t discard vaccines that are in refrigerators or freezers affected 

by temporary power outages; don’t administer affected vaccines until you have discussed 

with public health authorities.

If the power outage is ongoing 

■ Keep all refrigerators and freezers closed. This will help to conserve the cold mass of the 

vaccines.

■ Continue to monitor temperatures if possible. Do not open units to check temperatures 

during the power outage. Instead, record the temperature as soon as possible after the 

power is restored, and the duration of the outage. This will provide data on the maximum 

temperature and maximum duration of exposures to elevated temperatures.

■ If alternative storage with reliable power sources are available (for example, hospital with 

generator power), transfer to that facility can be considered. If transporting vaccine, measure 

the temperature of the refrigerator(s) and freezer(s) when the vaccines are removed. If 

possible transport the vaccine following proper cold chain procedures for storage and 

handling or try to record the temperature the vaccine is exposed to during transport. 

When power has been restored 

■ Record the temperature in the unit as soon as possible after power has been restored. 

Continue to monitor the temperatures until they reach the normal 2–8 degrees Celsius 

range in the refrigerator, or -15 degrees C or less in the freezer. Be sure to record the 

duration of increased temperature exposure and the maximum temperature observed.

■ If you receive vaccine from your state or local health department, they may be contacting 

you with guidance on collecting information on vaccine exposed to extreme temperatures.

■ If you are concerned about the exposure or efficacy of any of your vaccine stock, do not 

administer the vaccine until you have consulted your state or local health department.

■ Keep exposed vaccine separated from any new product you receive and continue to store 

at the proper temperature if possible.

■ Do not discard any vaccine that might have been exposed to increased or fluctuating 

temperatures. We will be working with the vaccine manufacturers to determine which 

vaccines may be viable.

For more information about the impact of power outages on vaccine storage, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/poweroutage/vaccinestorage.html. 

For additional information about vaccine storage and handling, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/admin/storage/index.html.
47

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

AT-RISK POPULATIONS

Pregnant women

After a hurricane or severe flooding many people are affected, here are some tips on how to 

protect yourself and your baby.

If you do get sick, talk with a health care provider right away. 

■ Explain that you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant. 

■ Some infections might harm your growing baby. The sooner you get the care you need, 

the better. 

■ While you are sick, drink plenty of clean water and follow the doctor or health care 

provider’s orders. 

■ Drinking lots of clean water and resting is very important for all pregnant women, 

especially when they are sick.

Before you start taking any medicines, even ones that you can buy at the store, talk 

with a health care provider.

■ Make sure to tell the doctor or nurse that you are pregnant or might be pregnant. 

■ Some medicines are not good for women to take when they are pregnant, but others 

are okay. 

■ Continue taking your multivitamins with 400 micrograms of folic acid every day to help 

keep you and your unborn baby in good health.

■ Vaccination helps protect women during pregnancy and protects the baby for several 

months after birth. CDC recommends getting the whooping cough and flu shots during 

pregnancy to protect yourself and your developing baby against serious diseases.

■ If you are already taking a medicine, talk to your doctor or health care provider before 

stopping the medicine. 

To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, do not use generators, kerosene heaters, grills, 

or camp stoves indoors.

■ Never use a generator, pressure washer, or any gasoline-powered engine inside your home, 

basement, or garage or less than 20 feet from any window, door, or vent.

■ Carbon monoxide is a gas with no color or smell. It is a poison to you and your baby. If you 

breathe it, it can make you very sick. It can even kill you. Carbon monoxide is a poison for 

anyone, whether pregnant or not.

■ When using a generator, use a battery-powered or battery backup carbon monoxide 

detector in your home. 

■ If you’ve breathed carbon monoxide, you might feel like throwing up or feel very tired. 

■ If you are having problems and think you were exposed to carbon monoxide, you should 

tell a doctor or nurse. 
48

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

If possible, do not touch or walk in flood water. 

■ If you do touch the water, make sure to use soap and clean water to wash the parts of your 

body that came in contact with the water. 

■ Do not swallow any of the flood water and be careful to keep it away from your mouth. 

■ If you feel sick in any way, talk to a doctor or nurse right away. 

■ Remember to explain that you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant. 

If you are pregnant, you should follow steps to prevent mosquito bites to reduce your 

risk for illnesses spread by mosquitoes. 

■ Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

■ Stay and sleep in places with air conditioning or that use window and door screens.

■ Use EPA-registered insect repellents with one of the following active ingredients: DEET, 

picaridin, IR3535, oil of lemon eucalyptus, para-menthane-diol, or 2-undecanone.

■ Once a week, empty and scrub, turn over, cover, or throw out items that hold water, such as 

trash containers, tires, buckets, toys, planters, flowerpots, birdbaths or pools.

Stress can cause problems like having your baby come too soon or having a baby that 

is under weight. It is important to choose healthy ways to deal with your stress. 

■ Understand that the stress you are feeling is normal.

■ Get plenty of rest—it is important for you and your baby.

■ Find healthy ways to relax. Taking just a few minutes a couple times during the day to 

close your eyes in a quiet place can help. Reading, listening to music, or writing in a journal 

can also help you to relax.

■ Avoid the urge to drink alcohol, smoke or take drugs as ways of coping with stress. 

■ Talk to friends, family members, or clergy for comfort and share your experiences and 

feelings with them.

■ If you feel like you can’t deal with your stress or that your friends or family can’t help, talk 

to a counselor, doctor or nurse.

For more information about disaster planning for pregnant women, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/features/disaster-planning-parents/index.html.

Postpartum women

Postpartum women may face unique challenges and medical needs during and after a disaster. 

You can take the following steps to protect yourself and your baby.

■ Take special care of your body after giving birth and while breastfeeding. 

■ Get a postpartum checkup within 6 weeks after having your baby, even if it is not with your 

usual doctor.

■ Get your vaccines, like the flu shot, if you did not receive it before or during your pregnancy.
49

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ See a doctor or other health care provider for well-baby checkups or if you are concerned 

about a health problem, even if it is not with your baby’s usual doctor. 

■ Postpartum depression can occur after having a baby, however, it is treatable and most 

women get better with treatment. To help relieve emotional stress, talk to a healthcare 

provider, friend, or family member about your concerns and feelings.

■ If you are not ready to get pregnant again, you can ask for several months’ supply of the 

pill, patch, or ring or consider using a birth control method that will prevent pregnancy for 

several months.

For more information about disaster planning for new parents, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/features/disaster-planning-parents/index.html.

Breastfeeding mothers

Breastfeeding is recommended for optimal infant nutrition. Breastfeeding remains the best 

infant feeding option in a natural disaster situation. Even when experiencing diarrhea, foodborne illness, or extreme stress, breastfeeding mothers continue to produce ample milk for their 

babies. 

Women and health professionals who need additional information about the effects of 

exposures, such as stress, related to a disaster on pregnancy or breastfeeding can call the 

Organization of Teratology Information Specialists (OTIS) at 1-866-626-OTIS or 1-866-626-6847.

For more information about breastfeeding, visit https://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/.

Infants

If you are away from your home, there are steps you can take to help your baby sleep safely. To 

reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (also known as SIDS) and other sleep-related 

causes of infant death, take the following actions:

■ Place your baby on his or her back for all sleep times—for naps and at night.

■ Use a firm sleep surface designed for babies, such as a mattress in a safety-approved crib 

or portable crib, covered by a fitted sheet. 

■ Have the baby share your room, not your bed. Your baby should not sleep on an adult bed, 

cot, air mattress or couch, or on a chair alone, with you, or with anyone else.

■ Keep soft objects, such as pillows and loose bedding, out of your baby’s sleep area.

■ Do not smoke or allow smoking around your baby.

■ Keep any available medical and immunization records with you, if possible. 

■ Infants are among those most at risk from exposure to air pollution, but everyone can 

experience effects like eye, lung or throat irritation.

■ Infants and young children may cry more than usual, want to be held more, and become 

fearful about being separated from their parent or caregiver.

■ See ‘Feeding Infants and Young Children’ section above in ‘Food’ section for safe feeding tips. 
50

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Children

■ Children may be very frightened and need help coping after a storm. 

■ After a storm, help children to understand that they are safe and secure by talking, playing 

and doing other family activities with them.

■ The National Child Traumatic Stress Network offers ideas on how to reassure children they 

are safe after a major storm. 

■ Keep children safe in the aftermath. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup 

work. Do not use N-95 respirators on children. N-95 respirators do not fit children and will 

not protect them.

■ Prevent children from playing in or around flood waters. It doesn’t take long or much water 

for children to drown. 

■ Talk to your children about where you are evacuating, explain that you are doing so to keep 

them safe.

■ If you are evacuating, make sure you take your and your family’s medications

■ If you are separated from your child, make sure he or she knows how to get in touch 

with you.

■ Make sure your child’s emergency contact info is up to date with their school.

■ Floods pose special danger to children. Watch for dangerous situations and learn how to 

keep kids safe. 

■ Never leave young children alone or allow them to play in damaged buildings or in areas 

that might be unsafe.

■ Young children may cry more than usual, want to be held more, and become fearful about 

being separated from their parent or caregiver.

■ Children may be afraid to sleep alone and may want to sleep with a parent or another 

person. Be as flexible as you can.

■ Children will feel more secure if you can stick to a routine as much as possible. For 

example, eat and sleep at the same time as always.

■ Make sure flood-damaged surfaces are disinfected to protect your children from exposure 

to toxins. 

■ Some children may be quiet or withdrawn. Others may become upset easily, cry frequently, 

or become angry. Encourage children to talk.

■ Children with health care needs such as autism spectrum disorder may have difficulties 

with changes in routine—help them anticipate changes, and tell them what might happen. 

It may be helpful to use stories.

■ Parents spending much of their time cleaning up and rebuilding their lives and homes may 

cause children to feel neglected. Involve them. This will build life skills.

■ Keep any available medical and immunization records with you, if possible. 

■ Children are among those most at risk from exposure to air pollution, but everyone can 

experience effects like eye, lung or throat irritation.

■ See section above on “Feeding Infants and Young Children” for safe feeding tips. 
51

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

For more information about how to care for children in a disaster, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/childrenindisasters/.

Older adults

Keep a list of medications, vaccination records, allergies, special equipment such as oxygen, 

hearing aids, etc., names and numbers of doctors, pharmacists and family members along with 

eyeglasses, medications and walking aids, such as a cane or walker, and a care plan. Developing 

and maintaining a care plan, a document that summarizes a person’s health conditions and 

current treatments, can be useful for patients and their caregivers, especially during times of an 

emergency. Have these items ready to take with you if you need to evacuate. 

Friends, family and neighbors should check on older adults to make sure they are okay and 

getting the assistance they need.

Older adults physiologically do not adjust as well as well as young people to sudden changes 

in temperature. They are more likely to have chronic medical conditions and take prescription 

medicines that affect the body’s ability to control its temperature or sweat. 

Planning considerations when preparing for and protecting older adults in an emergency.

■ Use shelter intake procedures to identify older adults; the shelter intake process can be an 

effective way for emergency management officials to identify older adults in the community 

who may need assistance due to a physical or cognitive impairment.

■ Capture information on older adults in shelters: demographics including reliance on 

caregivers, prevalence of chronic conditions including dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, 

functional and access needs, and proportion that rely on services through organizations for 

independence. 

■ Shelter facilities should meet the needs of this population, such as accessible to people who 

need help or certain accommodations to perform routine care or activities of daily living (for 

example, to use the bathroom, bathe, dress, groom, or get into and out of bed), accessible 

to people who have certain disabilities, such as those who use a wheelchair or walker, and 

include signs and other forms of communication that can be understood by older adults. 

For more information about emergency preparedness for older adults, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/features/older-adult-emergency/index.html.

For information about care plans to help both older adults and caregivers, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/features/caregivers-month/index.html.

People with disabilities

Emergency plans should be tailored to meet specific needs. If you have a disability, it may require 

extra planning to handle an emergency. A good plan may include family, friends, neighbors, and 

organizations that support people with disabilities and can help make decisions. 
52

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Children with disabilities sometimes have added challenges during an emergency situation 

compared to children without disabilities.

■ Children with disabilities may have a hard time moving from one location to another, have 

difficulty communicating, or have trouble adjusting to different situations.

Below are additional tips for people with disabilities and their caregivers:

■ Make sure those who take medications keep an adequate supply on hand, and copies of 

their prescriptions. 

■ People who need power for medical or other assistive devices should keep extra sets of 

batteries, and consider a generator for home use if a power outage may jeopardize health 

or safety. 

■ People with dietary needs should have an emergency food supply. 

■ Those who are deaf or hard of hearing must be able to receive emergency alerts and 

warnings in an accessible form.

■ The law requires that service dogs should be admitted to shelters during emergencies. 

» Include your service animal in your emergency plan. Make sure your emergency kit 

includes food and other items for service animals. 

» Work with local emergency management to ensure that they are prepared to receive 

service animals.

■ Helping someone in wheelchair? They may be able to transfer themselves. Be respectful of 

their independence.

■ A car battery can charge an electric wheelchair during power outage. 

■ If someone is helping you shelter because you have a disability, explain how they can best 

assist you.

■ Always ask a person with a disability how you can best assist them to shelter or cope. 

■ Children and adults with autism spectrum disorder may have difficulties with changes 

in routine—help them anticipate changes,and tell them what might happen. It may be 

helpful to use stories.

For more information about emergency planning for children with disabilities, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandsafety/emergency.html.

For information about resources for people with disabilities and their caregivers, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/disabilityandhealth/emergency-tools.html.

People with chronic illness

HHS’s Emergency Prescription Assistance Program may be activated after a disaster. It is a free 

service that helps residents get medicine, medical supplies, medical equipment and vaccines 

that were lost, stolen, or damaged due to the disaster. If activated, call 855-793-7470 to enroll or 

visit www.PHE.gov/EPAP.
53

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

Diabetes

If you are living with diabetes or have a loved one with the disease, follow these tips after an 

emergency.

■ It may be hard to find the food that you usually eat. Try to choose foods that are lower in 

carbohydrates (sugar) and salt, if possible.

■ Try to test your blood sugar often to make sure it’s in the target range. You may be getting 

more or less physical activity than usual and eating different foods. 

■ Get medical attention for heat-related illness. Certain diabetes complications, such as 

damage to blood vessels and nerves, can affect your sweat glands so your body can’t 

cool as effectively. That can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which is a medical 

emergency. High temperatures can also change how your body uses insulin. You may need 

to test your blood sugar more often, and adjust your insulin dose and what you eat and 

drink.

■ Drink plenty of clean, safe, water—even if you’re not thirsty. People with diabetes get 

dehydrated (lose too much water from their bodies) more quickly. Not drinking enough 

liquids can raise blood sugar, and high blood sugar can make you urinate more, causing 

dehydration.

■ Avoid alcohol and drinks with caffeine, like coffee and energy or sports drinks. They can 

lead to water loss and spike your blood sugar levels.

■ Keep medicines, supplies, and equipment out of the heat. Insulin remains usable for 28 

days at room temperature up to 86°F. 

■ Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.

■ Wear sunscreen and a hat when you’re outside. 

■ Don’t go barefoot.

Diabetic ketoacidosis

After a natural disaster or emergency, it may be difficult to manage your diabetes like you 

normally do. It may be harder to get healthy food or sometimes to even get some of your 

medicine. If you have type 1 diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis is a life-threatening complication of 

diabetes that can occur when management is interrupted. 

What is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?

■ Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a potentially life threatening medical emergency. 

■ DKA happens when your body has a very high blood sugar and a build-up of acid. DKA 

occurs more often in people with type 1 diabetes (people who do not make any of their 

own insulin) but occasionally may happen in people with type 2 diabetes. 

What causes DKA?

■ The main cause of DKA is not having enough insulin, which can raise your blood sugar.

■ Insulin helps the body’s cells use sugar (glucose) to make energy. 
54

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

■ When your cells can’t use the glucose they need for energy, your body begins to burn fat 

for energy, which produces ketones (fatty acids) which can cause a build-up of acid in the 

body, causing ketoacidosis. 

■ Having a high blood sugar level can cause more urination which may lead to dehydration. 

What can trigger DKA?

■ DKA is associated with not getting enough insulin, having a severe infection or becoming 

very dehydrated. 

■ When people are sick, they often need more insulin for many reasons. One reason is that 

when you are sick, your body produces stress hormones like adrenalin and cortisol, which 

may interfere with how your body uses insulin so your blood sugar goes up. 

What are symptoms and signs of DKA?

■ Thirst or a very dry mouth

■ Frequent urination

■ Fatigue 

■ Dry or flushed skin

■ Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain (Please note: vomiting can be caused by many 

illnesses, not just ketoacidosis. If vomiting continues for more than 2 hours, contact your 

health care provider.)

■ Difficulty breathing

■ Breath has a fruity odor 

■ Confusion 

■ High blood sugar levels (over 240mg/dl for more than 2 checks. Blood sugar should be 

checked every 4-6 hours.)

■ High levels of ketones in the urine

DKA is dangerous and serious. If you have any of the above symptoms, contact your health care 

provider IMMEDIATELY, or go to the nearest emergency room of your local hospital.

How do I check for ketones at home?

■ Check for ketones at home by using a urine test trip. 

■ Ask your health care provider when and how you should test for ketones.

■ Check your urine or ketones every 4-6 hours if your blood sugar is more than 240 mg/dl or 

if you are sick. 

Call your health care provider immediately if:

■ Your urine tests show high levels of ketones.

■ Your urine tests show high levels of ketones and your blood sugar is high.

■ Your urine tests show high levels of ketones and you have vomited more than twice in 

four hours.

Do NOT exercise when your urine tests show ketones and your blood glucose is high.
55

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

How is DKA diagnosed?

Laboratory tests, including blood and urine tests, are used to confirm a diagnosis of diabetic 

ketoacidosis. 

How is it treated?

When ketoacidosis is severe, it must be treated in the hospital. 

How can I prevent DKA?

Talk to your doctor about making a sick day plan before you get sick. 

For information about resources for people with diabetes, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/ndep/people-with-diabetes/emergency.html.

Cancer

Cancer patients who are treated with chemotherapy are more likely to get infections. 

Chemotherapy can cause a condition called neutropenia—a decrease in the number of white 

blood cells. These cells are the body’s main defense against infection. Neutropenia often occurs 

between 7 and 12 days after receiving chemotherapy.

If you are being treated with chemotherapy, keep these tips in mind after an emergency.

■ Take steps to avoid getting an infection. Clean your hands often, try to avoid crowded 

places and people who are sick, and stay away from moldy or dirty places.

■ Watch for signs of an infection, like chills and sweats, a sore throat or other pain, nasal 

congestion, or vomiting. 

■ Call a doctor right away if you get a fever.

For more information about how to prevent infections, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/preventinfections/.

For information and resources for individuals with other chronic conditions, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/chronic.html.
56

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

PET SAFETY

CDC recommends the following guidance regarding pet safety in emergencies:

■ Make a plan. Disasters can happen without warning, so be prepared for the event.

■ Shelter in place. When sheltering at home with your pet, make sure the room chosen is 

pet-friendly.

■ Find out if shelter provides accommodations for pets. If you need to evacuate, contact your 

local emergency management office and ask if they offer accommodations for owners and 

their pets.

If accommodations are needed for your pet(s):

■ Contact local veterinary clinics, boarding facilities, and local animal shelters. Visit the 

Humane Society website to find a shelter in your area. 

■ Contact family or friends outside the evacuation area.

■ Contact a pet-friendly hotel, particularly along evacuation routes.

■ Prepare a pet disaster kit. Prepare a disaster kit for your pet(s), so evacuation will go 

smoothly for your entire family. Ask your veterinarian for help putting it together. 

■ Protect yourself from injury and illness. Disasters are stressful for humans and pets alike. 

Practice safe handling of your pet, because your pet may behave differently during a 

stressful situation.

■ Protect yourself form illnesses transmitted by diseased pets. Diseased pets can transmit 

illnesses to people during a natural disaster. Exposure to inclement weather conditions, 

stagnant water, wildlife or unfamiliar animals, and overcrowding can put your pet at risk 

for getting sick. Some of these illnesses can be transmitted to people.

What if I am separated from my pet?

■ Make sure that your family is in a safe location before you begin your search.

■ If you are in a shelter that houses pets, inform one of the pet caretakers. Give the pet 

caretaker your pre-made missing pet handout.

■ Once you have been cleared to leave the shelter and return home, contact animal control 

about your lost pet.

For more information about pet safety during an emergency, visit 

https://www.cdc.gov/features/petsanddisasters/index.html.
57

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

ADDITIONAL WEB AND MULTIMEDIA 

RESOURCES

■ Hurricanes and other tropical storms 

» https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/index.html

■ Hurricanes multimedia toolkit

» https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/diaspora_toolkit.html

■ Be ready for hurricane season

» https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/toolkits/hurricanes/default.html

■ Floods

» https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/floods/index.html

■ Tips on how to protect yourself from floods

» https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/toolkits/floods/default.html

■ Educational materials by topic

» https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/educationalmaterials.html

■ Educational materials by language

» https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/hurricanes/other-languages.html

■ Preparedness infographics

» https://www.cdc.gov/phpr/infographics/

■ State and local emergency preparedness

» https://www.cdc.gov/phpr/readiness/index.htm
58

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 

CDC’s Joint Information Center, operating in the Emergency Operations Center, developed the 

2017 Hurricane Response Key Messages in collaboration with centers across CDC, including the 

■ Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry

■ National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health

■ National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases

■ National Center for Environmental Health

■ National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Disease

■ National Center for Injury Prevention and Control

■ National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities 

■ Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response

The National Center for Environmental Health and the Office of Public Health Preparedness and 

Response adapted the 2017 Hurricane Response Key Messages to provide state and local partners 

with a communication resource for preparedness, response, and recovery.

The following staff listed in alphabetical order edited the Preparedness and Safety Messaging for 

Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters:

■ Heather Bair-Brake, DVM, MS

■ Renée H. Funk, DVM, MPH&TM, MBA 

■ Sean M. Griffing, PhD, MPH

■ Rebecca S. Noe, MN MPH, FNP-BC 

■ Sabrina Riera, MPH

■ Beth Siegel, MPH

■ Germaine M. Vázquez, MS
59

Preparedness and Safety Messaging for Hurricanes, Flooding, and Similar Disasters | KEY MESSAGES

NOTES:
For more information 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

National Center for Environmental Health

Office of Public Health Preparedness and Response 

Web: https://www.emergency.cdc.gov/

Email: preparedness@cdc.gov

CDC-Info 

Web: https://www.cdc.gov/cdc-info/

Telephone: 1-800-CDC-INFO (232-4636); TTY: 1-888-232-6348 

Email Form: https://wwwn.cdc.gov/dcs/ContactUs/Form

CS 293348-A June 2018