Die Anschläge in New York und Washington am 11

Save lives: 
Saving human life has priority over protecting property 
and assets. 
Never undertake any rescue attempts without ensuring 
your own safety - call for help! 
Do not approach the banks of rivers, as there is a risk that 
they may cave in and you may be carried away! The 
same applies to driving on flooded or partially flooded 
roads! Observe barriers blocking off roads and follow the 
instructions issued by the local authorities and the 
emergency services! 
Do not “cruise” along on flooded waterways, as this will 
cause waves and underwater obstacles constitute a 
danger! 
After flooding 
Remove residual water and sludge, but do not pump the 
affected rooms dry until the floodwater has receded and 

---

- 84 - 
the groundwater level has fallen sufficiently. Observe the 
information provided by your local authorities. 
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
Floor coverings and clothing should be removed or 
opened for inspection purposes. 
Dry affected areas as quickly as possible, in order to 
counter structural damage, mould or other forms of 
infestation. Heating devices can be used to support the 
drying process. 
Have damaged structural components of the building 
examined (statics). 
Do not put electrical devices and systems back into 
operation until they have been checked by a specialist. 
Have fuel oil tanks checked for damage. 
Notify the fire brigade if hazardous substances such as 
pesticides, paints, lacquers, detergents or fuel oil have 
been released. Disposal may have to be carried out by 
specialist companies. 
In case of leaked oils, use oil binding agents only in 
consultation with the fire brigade. 
Rooms in which work is carried out should be well 
ventilated at all times. If hazardous substances have been 
released, do not smoke and avoid open fire. 
Dispose of soiled furniture and foodstuffs. 
In case of gardens or fields covered with thick layers of oil 
sludge, notify the rural county office or the office of 
agriculture. 
Information, tips and, where appropriate, the addresses of 
specialist companies are available from your competent local 
authorities and the fire brigade.