Flood Recovery Begins
The water and wastewater systems impacted by last week’s flooding have begun the slow, grueling process of repairing damage and restoring service.
We are continuing to post updated information at vtruralwater.org/july-2024-flooding
FEMA Assessment
On Saturday, Governor Scott filed a request for FEMA to conduct a preliminary damage assessment, which could lead to a federal disaster declaration and bring funding for public assistance and/or individual assistance.
Find information about preparing for potential FEMA Public Assistance funds at https://www.vlct.org/news/fema-pa-information-july-10-2024-flood-event
VT WARN
Thank you to everyone who has offered to loan equipment or volunteer through VT WARN! Please continue to submit offers and requests for assistance through this form or by emailing Liz Royer at lroyer@vtruralwater.org.
Safety Reminders
- Take precaution against heat-related illness by working during the cooler parts of the day, taking frequent breaks, using sun protection, and staying hydrated.
- Flooded building should be checked by a licensed electrician before turning on the circuit breaker or using any electrical devices.
- Do not run generators inside buildings or garages. Place generators at least 20 feet from buildings.
- Exhaustion and stress from long workdays creates additional safety risks, so take extra care with tasks such as driving.
- Wear a face mask, safety goggles, and work gloves to protect from dust and mold when cleaning up after a flood. Email info@vtruralwater.org to request free KN95 masks.
- If you have come in contact with floodwaters, check that your tetanus shot is up-to-date. If it has been more than 10 years since your last tetanus shot, or if you had any cuts while you were in floodwaters, consider getting a tetanus booster.
- Natural disasters are traumatic and can trigger emotions like stress, fear, anxiety, and helplessness. For mental health support, call or text the Disaster Distress Helpline at 1–800–985–5990. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is also available by calling or texting 988.
- Use extra caution when opening emails and clicking links because cyber attacks tend to target communities during emergencies and disasters.
- Be aware of disaster-related scams like fake contractors.
Private Wells
The Vermont Health Department is offering free drinking water test kits for private wells and springs. Test kits can be obtained by filling out the online form here, calling 802-338-4724, or contacting your local health office.
Hazard Mitigation Funding
Vermont Emergency Management is holding a series of “Open Office Hours” about FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, for projects that reduce risk from flooding or other disasters. Water and wastewater systems could use this funding for projects like floodproofing or relocating infrastructure, backup generators, and more. You do not need to have been impacted by recent floods to be eligible. The application deadline is August 16.
At the Office Hours, you can ask questions about project eligibility, the application process, and support needs. The sessions are all on Microsoft Teams. The dates are:
- July 22, 2–3 pm — Meeting Link
- July 31, 1–2 pm — Meeting Link
- August 7, 2–3 pm — Meeting Link
For more information, visit Vermont’s Disaster Based Funding page or contact dps.hazardmitigation@vermont.gov.
Water Professionals Appreciation Day
Water Professionals Appreciation Day is still on for this Friday, July 19 and we have space for a few more attendees. If you would like to join us for disc golf and/or lunch, please RSVP as soon as possible!
Register for the disc golf tournament here.
Sponsored by:
