TRURO - In the aftermath of Monday's flooding in Truro and areas of Colchester County, the Emergeny Measures Organization (EMO) is reminding homeowners, businesses and residents of the following:
- Contact insurance agents as soon as possible if there has been damage. Make a list and photograph or videotape all damages and items that had to be discarded
- Keep a record of flood-related activity, such as time spent cleaning, and keep copies of all invoices and receipts
- Do not use flooded appliances, electrical outlets, switch boxes or fuse/breaker panels until they have been checked by local utilities. Arrange for qualified workers to reconnect gas, pump or electrical supplies
- Leave and contact the gas company immediately if there is a smell of gas
- Rinse away contamination inside the home and dispose of the rinse water
- Clean and dry out the house and salvageable possessions as quickly as possible
- Household items contaminated by sewage, or that have been wet for a long time, have to be bagged, tagged and discarded according to local regulations
- Some food that has come into contact with flood water must be discarded. Canned food can be cleaned. First, remove labels, then clean cans using a mixture of one tablespoon of bleach to one litre of water. Then label clean cans with a marker. Throw out any cans that are bulging, damaged or opened.
- Homeowners with private wells for drinking water should test the supply and not drink the water until they are certain it is safe to drink. Test kits are available at the Department of Environment district offices. The department is working with municipalities to have test kits available at municipal offices.
- Check on-site septic systems and contact the local environment office if it is not working. Homeowners should also ensure oil tanks are secure.
Anyone in need of financial assistance to meet basic needs can apply for income assistance by contacting the local Community Services office. Requests are assessed on an individual basis to determine need. If a person is not eligible, staff can advise of other community supports that may help.
- Contact your local property insurance company to determine if the losses are covered. (overland flooding is usually not covered.)
- Request a letter from the insurance company stating that such losses are not covered
- Confirm if your policy is an ‘all perils' policy
- Keep the receipts when damaged items are replaced
- Save items that are damaged until the period of assessment by EMO has been completed
- Obtain and keep quotes before restoration work begins.
Colchester North MLA Karen Casey stated yesterday that if the total loss for the Town of Truro and the Municipality of Colchester reaches $1 million, then the premier and cabinet will determine if there is a need for a disaster relief program.
If such a program is approved, the public will be notified, and the applications will be available on the EMO website or at Access Nova Scotia offices.
For further information, Casey can be contacted at 893-2180.
