Experienced damage from severe storms? What you should do next, and scams to watch out for
Severe storms swept through the Greater Cincinnati region on Wednesday, resulting in an EF2 tornado in Goshen Township and an EF1 tornado touchdown in Brown County near Lake Lorelei, leaving more than 100,000 Duke Energy customers without power at the peak.
Severe weather: What we know about the likely tornado touchdown in Goshen Township
Clermont County's Emergency Management Agency has a handy guide on what to do following a disaster. The disaster recovery tips break down into four sections: How to recover, react, restore and respond.
To recover, you should repair and rebuild and maintain all records and receipts.
To react, assess immediate emergency needs and contact the American Red Cross for assistance, if necessary at 1 (800) RED-CROSS; 1 (800) 733-2767.
To restore, coordinate with insurance adjustors. and monitor and track progress of any applications.
And to respond, take inventory damages,contact your insurance company and apply for assistance programs, if necessary.
After the storm: Here's what to do about downed trees or branches after severe weather
How to proceed with disaster recovery, and how to avoid getting scammed
It's important to take ownership and be proactive in your disaster recovery plan. Do not act immediately, and avoid signing any documents within the first 72 hours following a disaster.
Use licensed contractors, and verify their identity and legitimacy. To confirm a contractor is licensed in Ohio, contact the Ohio Attorney General's Office-Consumer Protection Division at 800-282-0515. Get at least three references, and check those before entering in a contract. With any contractor, get proof of insurance and any guarantees in writing, and only make final payments after the work is completed.
Make sure you safeguard your personal information, and never give out your social security or credit card numbers. Federal, state and local programs will not ask for bank account or social security numbers, unless you initiate the call.
Donate only to charities you know, and if you receive a call soliciting, ask the person for the exact name, address and phone number for the charity. Research that charity or nonprofit, and confirm if the person calling is a volunteer or employee.
If you receive any assistance from the federal, state and local level, maintain records and keep receipts for all expenses that happen during the recovery process.
For any future severe weather that will pass through, it's important to be prepared. This can include making a plan, building an emergency supply kit, developing a communication plan and safeguarding important documents by scanning and copying them, then sending them to someone you trust out of the area for safekeeping.
What to do during excessive heat
Thousands still remain without power, and as hot summer weather continues, there is a higher risk for developing heat-related illnesses.
Hot weather is here: Extreme heat is dangerous for more than children, elderly. How to know if you're at risk
Here are some precautions to take:
Stay hydrated, and drink plenty of water.
Minimize exposure to the sun.
Check on your relatives and neighbors. The elderly are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
Reduce or reschedule strenuous activities until a cooler part of the day.
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing.
Never leave children, pets or others in a closed car.
If air conditioning is not available in your home, consider going to a cooling center.
Need to cool off?: Here's how to get a free air conditioner or help with your energy bill
This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: What to do next after a disaster hits your home, community
