CANTON – There are certain dos and don’ts when it comes to returning to a home that has been flooded. A multitude of brochures, flyers and other information is available to Canton residents at the Veterans of Foreign Wars hall for people facing such a daunting task.

Among the safety advice, much provided by the University of Maine Cooperative Extension, are:

• Throw away plastic and wooden utensils, baby nipples and pacifiers that have been touched by flood waters.

• Check for electrical hazards, gas leaks and structural damage. Call the appropriate repairmen.

• Take photos of damaged areas for insurance purposes and keep track of all flood-related expenses.

• Wash dishes, pots and pans or any other items used in food preparation before using again. Flood water can contain silt, sewage, oil or chemical waste.

• Take dry cleanable clothing to cleaners as soon as possible. Rinse washable clothes in cool water until water runs clear.

• Don’t use fresh food that has come in contact with flood waters.

• If water supplies have been affected, boil water for 10 minutes before drinking, or mix a teaspoonful of bleach with two gallons water, then let stand for five minutes.

• Hose down carpets and floors as soon as possible.

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