BOARDMAN, Ohio – In the 10 days since torrential rains caused localized flooding in this Mahoning County community, American Red Cross workers have helped 115 residents with immediate financial assistance.  And the disaster responders continue reaching out to residents in the area who may have been affected by the unexpected flood waters.

Three dozen cases have been opened so far, with a total of $12,788 dollars committed to help residents clean-up their homes and make them livable again.  More than two dozen cleaning kits, containing mops, brooms, bleach and other cleaning supplies have been distributed.

Photo credit:  Kristen Gallagher/American Red Cross

“Most use the money we offer them to buy additional cleaning supplies,” said Renee Palagyi, Senior Regional Disaster Program Manager for the Red Cross of Northeast Ohio. “Some pay for laundry services, for steam-cleaning upholstery, that kind of thing,” she said.

Like most Northeast Ohioans, Renee encountered heavy rain on her ride into work Tuesday morning.  With the damage done by the flooding in Boardman in mind, she shared flood safety information with the rest of the Regional staff in her daily report.

Staying Safe Indoors

• Turn off the power and water mains if instructed to do so by local authorities.

• Boil tap water until water sources have been declared safe.

• Avoid contact with floodwater. It may be contaminated with sewage or contain dangerous insects or animals.

• Continue listening to local area radio, NOAA radio or TV stations for the latest information and updates.

• Don’t use gas or electrical appliances that have been flooded.

• Dispose of any food that comes into contact with flood water .

Staying Safe Outdoors

• Don’t walk, swim or drive through floodwater. Just six inches of fast-flowing water can knock you over and two feet will float a car.

• If caught on a flooded road with rapidly rising waters, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.

  

• Don’t walk on beaches or riverbanks.

• Don’t allow children to play in or near flood water.

• Avoid contact with floodwater. It may be contaminated with sewage or contain dangerous insects or animals.

• Stay out of areas subject to flooding. Underpasses, dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc. can become filled with water.

“I think everyone needs a reminder to follow the tips the Red Cross espouses,” she said. “It’s too easy to think we’re invulnerable, and we’re not.”