After-Flood Checklist

The record-setting rainfall is behind us. As we head into the weekend, local residents and officials are busy dealing with the aftermath. Use the following resources to help get things back to normal.

Cleaning Up 

The Summit County Health District advises residents to avoid flooding or standing water, which could contain submerged objects, fecal bacteria from overtaxed sanitary sewers and other potentially disease-causing substances. Use hand sanitizer if fresh water is not available for washing. Wear goggles, boots and rubber gloves to clean flooded areas and wash clothes worn during the cleanup.  Do not allow children to play with toys that have come into contact with standing water until the items have been cleaned and disinfected.

Don Corbett, owner of Servicemaster in Fairlawn reminds do-it-yourself cleaners to stay out of standing water where there is a possibility of live electricity, and to wear rubber boots and rubber gloves when handling any potentially damp power cords. Wet furniture, mattresses and clothes should be removed. Furniture that cannot be moved should be elevated on blocks or pallets. Excess water can be drained with a wet/dry vacuum. Soggy carpets and padding should be removed. Air movement and light delays mold growth, so use a dehumidifier and fan to dry what cannot be removed until help can arrive. 

The Copley Township Service Department will man large dumpsters to collect flood debris beginning at 7 a.m. today, July 22. Call 330-666-0365 for more details.

Cooling Off

The Summit County Emergency Management Agency will operate cooling centers that will be open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the following locations. The centers will be air conditioned and have water and seating available. Bring needed food and medication with you and a cooler, if necessary.

• Copley United Methodist Church, 1518 S. Cleveland Massillon Rd, Copley, OH 44321 
• American Red Cross of Portage and Summit Counties, 501 West Market Street, Akron, OH  44303 
• Rimer  Community Learning Center, 2370 Manchester Rd, Akron OH 44314 
• Barberton Chapter of the American  Red Cross, 564 W. Tuscarawas Ave,#101, Barberton, OH 44203 
• Reminderville Fire Department, 3382 Glenwood Blvd,  Reminderville, OH  44202 

Free parking is available. Those who need transportation should contact METRO Regional Transit Authority, 330-762-0341.

In addition to the county centers, the Salvation Army at 190 S. Maple Street, Akron will be open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The advises these precautions to beat the heat.

• Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids even if you do not feel thirsty.Avoid drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
• Eat small meals and eat more often.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing. Avoid dark colors because they absorb the sun’s rays.
• Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
• Postpone outdoor games and activities.
• Check on your animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat.

Property Tax Relief

If your property was damaged or destroyed  you may qualify for a reduction in the value of the damaged portion of your home. Items that could be covered include roofs, siding, foundations, windows, interior walls and ceilings, carpet and other floor coverings, furnace and hot water heaters and built-in appliances. Landscaping, fences and personal items are generally not covered.

Property owners can file a Damaged Property Value Reduction with the Summit County Fiscal Office. The form is available on the county web site in a PDF fill-in format under Destroyed Property on the home page. It is also available by mail. To receive a mailed copy call 330-643-8654.