During cleanup, think safety first. Hazards might include live power lines, leaking gas, wildlife, contaminated water, molds and toxins, exposed nails and screws, broken glass or twisted metal, and other debris.

• Make sure all utilities are turned off before you begin any serious cleanup.

• Make sure the building is safe before you enter. If you suspect structural damage, contact a building inspector or a contractor.

• Use the appropriate safety gear:

•  Heavy-duty work gloves

• Waterproof boots

• Ear plugs

• N95 dust masks

• Use teams to move heavy or bulky objects.

• Check for signs of water damage or mold growth, including discoloration in walls and ceilings, or a strong odor.

• Always watch your footing.

• Pace yourself and take breaks.

• Eat and drink.

• Check on your neighbors.

• Let someone know you are working and when you expect to be done, so if something happens, they will check on you.

If disaster damages to the Districts meet alarming criteria, the Minister of the Region may request a National disaster declaration. Not all disaster events result in a Ministerial request, and approval by the President is not automatic. Many disasters in Ghana have not received a National declaration.

If a National disaster is declared, disaster assistance or direct financial assistance may be available to individuals, households, and businesses. The assistance is meant to help with necessary expenses.

After a disaster hits your home or small business, contact NADMO to apply for relief assistance, even if you have already submitted a claim with your insurance company. NADMO can provide safe haven for Shelters/housing, along with other personal expenses, including food, clothing, and medicine.

NADMO has various forms of assistance that could be available to you and your family, including:

• Temporary  shelter/housing

• • Property repair, replacement, or reconstruction costs

• • Disaster Unemployment Assistance

• • Unmet disaster-related needs after insurance settlements

NADMO may/should also be able to refer you to the Ghana Corporate World Businesses and Companies who provide low-interest loans to homeowners, renters, and business owners for damaged and destroyed assets in a declared disaster. These include repair and replacement costs for real estate, personal property, machinery, equipment, inventory, and business assets.  They will not duplicate benefits from your insurance.

When you apply to NADMO you should have a pen and paper available to write down important information. You will receive number for your registration. This will be one of your unique identifiers. Write the number down and keep it in a safe place. When you contact NADMO you will need:

• Your TIN number.

• Current mailing address.

• Damaged home address.

• Phone numbers.

• Type of insurance coverage.

• Total household annual income.

•  Account number from your bank if you want to have disaster assistance funds transferred directly into your bank account