NORTH CAROLINA -- ​With the deluge of rain over the last few days, many areas of North Carolina have been hit hard by flash flooding. Some areas will continue to see flooding for the next few days as the water works through the creeks, streams and river systems.  

If you had to evacuate, or will need to, here are some tips for you of what to do after the flooding has ended.

1. Only return home when emergency officials tell you that your area is safe
2. Do not enter your home until you have looked for foundation cracks, downed or loose power lines, damaged gas lines or other damage.
   
3. Approach the entrances to your home carefully. Parts of your home may have collapsed. Look to see that porches and overhangs have all of their supports.
   
4. Wildlife may have come into your home. Flood waters may have brought poisonous snakes into your home.
   
5. Should you smell natural gas or propane or hear any hissing noise, leave immediately and call your fire department.
   
6. Do not step into puddles near downed power lines; avoid standing water.
   
7. Keep children and pets away.
   
8. During cleanup, protective clothing will be needed. Rubber gloves, rubber boots and face masks.
   
9. Clear out any food that has come in contact with flood waters. When in doubt, throw it out; canned foods included.
   
10. Do not use water that could be contaminated to brush your teeth, prepare food, wash hands, wash dishes or make ice.
    
11. Get information from local and state health departments about water quality for your area and other tips on flood recovery.