From the OEM: Storm Recovery Tips

New Canaan's Office of Emergency Management is offering the following list of tips for homeowners following the weekend's disastrous storm:

• Contact your homeowner's insurance agent for guidance on where to start if you have storm damage to your home or property.
• Keep copies of receipts for all expenses related to the storm damage, including meals and alternative living expenses (e.g. hotel and motel stays).
• After flooding mold is a big concern. Contact your insurance company or, check the internet for steps to take to prevent mold growth. Step one must be to remove the water.
• If the temperature of hazardous food (eggs, meat, fish, cooked vegetables and rice, poultry, dairy products) has been over 45 degrees Fahrenheit for more that four hours discard them. When in doubt, throw it out. Document any damaged or disposed of food products for possible reimbursement by insurance.
• Repairs other than cosmetic may require a building permit from the Building Department. Please contact them for advice at 203-594-3012. Emergency work can be done to restore or make a structure safe, however contractors must follow up with Building Department.
• At least one neighboring town has already reported contractor scams related to storm clean-up and repairs. Always get references and make sure anyone you hire has a home improvement contractor's licenses and is fully insured. The Town does not "recommend" or "send out" any repair contractors.
• If any critical infrastructure was submerged (i.e. boiler, furnace, and electrical panels) they should be serviced by appropriate professionals to insure your safety prior to reactivation.
• Check trees for hanging "widow maker" branches that may still be ready to fall.
• Town Highway crews will be circling back for final clean-up. Branches (no logs) can be brought to the curb (butt end please) through March 25.
• Have your generator serviced by technicians to ensure it is ready for next storm.
• Replenish any emergency supplies used during the storm (food, water, batteries, portable radio, etc.)
• Go to www.newcanaan.info to register all of your phone numbers for the out-call system so that you can recieve critical messages.