County and city officials, along with other departments and organizations focused on disaster relief efforts met Monday morning to address needs. It’s been a community effort and all leaders commented that the community’s response has been overwhelming. Those attending offered several pieces of information to help those picking up after the damage.
Marshall County EMA Director Clyde Avery encourages everyone to report damage to 2-1-1 or go online at www.in211.org. All data is important in order to apply for federal relief through FEMA. He said about 60 reports have been made in terms of disaster needs. Anyone suffering with issues is strongly encouraged to report it.
Additionally, victims can call 2-1-1 or visit www.in211.org to seek resources for help. Volunteers may also register online at www.in211.org so officials have a registration of those who are offering assistance. Volunteer expertise can be dispersed in a concentrated effort this Saturday and Sunday. More information on that will be released this week.
The American Red Cross has dismantled the shelter hosted at the Plymouth High School for flood victims; however, they will continue to assist those displaced by the flood.
Several offers of clothing and food have been made, but the Neighborhood Center is requesting that cash donations be made through the United Way of Marshall County. The United Way has a separate fund where 100 percent of the donations will be used toward disaster relief.
Commissioner Mike Delp commented that the German Township area continues to be a troublesome area in terms of travel. He stressed that some roads will continue to be closed as crews work to remove debris and assess damage. Bridges are being inspected for clearance. Plymouth Street Superintendent Jim Marquardt reported that his crews are also assessing damage and will focus on debris removal and repair as they can.
Health Administrator Christine Stinson urges flood victims to throw out anything that may have come into contact with flood waters. She noted that the flood water is filled with waste and unknown contaminates. Tetanus shots will be made available in a clinic tentatively set for next week. If anyone has been in flood waters, make sure precautions are taken to be clean. Disaster Recovery Guides, hygiene kits and cleaning supplies are available at 121 W. Garro Street from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. until further notice.
Wells and septic systems may malfunction during flooding events. A water testing day is set for March 8. Stinson stresses that wells must be disinfected before use. More information is available on the Marshall County Health Department’s Facebook page or call 574-935-8565.
Mold is also an issue in long-term flood recovery efforts. All areas touched by flood waters should receive treatment with a product called shockwave. Bleach won’t entirely kill the mold.
For disaster assistance, call 2-1-1 or visit www.in211.org.
