The Federal Emergency Management Administration urges care in returning to a flooded home by following these safety tips:

• Check your home before you go in: Carefully inspect outside your home for loose power lines, gas leaks, foundation cracks or other damage. See if porch roofs and overhangs still have all their supports. If you see damage, a building inspector or contractor should check the building before you enter.

• Turn off the electricity: Even if the electricity has been turned off in the area, make certain your power supply is disconnected.

• If you smell gas: If you suspect a gas leak or smell gas, leave your home and call the gas company from a neighbor's house.

• Enter carefully: If the door sticks at the top, it could mean your ceiling is ready to fall. If you force the door open, wait outside the doorway in case debris falls.

• Check the ceiling: Look for signs of sagging. Wind, rain, or deep flooding may wet plaster or wallboard. It is very heavy and dangerous if it falls.

• Clean your house: Make sure the electricity is off and hose down the house to remove health hazards left behind by floodwater mud. Shovel out as much mud as possible. Remove water quickly using a mop.

FOR MORE INFORMATION

"Surviving the Storm, a Guide to Flood Preparedness," from Federal Emergency Management Agency at www.fema.gov/.