OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) — Sarpy County says flood cleanup crews continue to work across the county and that some areas have reopened to homeowners.
Sarpy County's Press Release:
The private recreation areas at Olivo Lake and Schmid Park are now open to the property owners. If you have a cabin at either of these areas, contact the owner for permission to access the property.
Betty, Chris and Hanson Lakes are open to residents. Before being allowed onto the property, one representative from each property must check in at the Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office, 8335 Platteview Road. The check-in desk will be open until 6 p.m. Friday and from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.
Residents will receive a placard that must be displayed on the outside of their homes.
After they have checked in, residents can access their properties immediately. Access will only be allowed through the 36th Street and La Platte Road entrance. People will be allowed to stay in the neighborhood 24 hours a day, but they can only enter between 7:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Residents will only be allowed to use fuel-supplied generators. For safety, these should be used outside, not inside a home or garage. Generators cannot be connected to a home’s electrical system, and electrical permits for transfer switches will not be issued at this time. If authorities see an unauthorized or dangerous connection to a home’s electrical system, the responsible party will be asked to remove it. Failure to do so may result in arrest.
Propane vendors will not be allowed into the neighborhood at this time.
The Salvation Army is offering food and water as well as emotional and spiritual support at both Hawaiian Village and the Betty, Chris and Hanson Lakes area.
COMMUNITIES STILL INACCESSIBLE
The following communities/neighborhoods remain inaccessible because of flooding or road issues: Vencil’s Island, Linoma Beach, Thomas Riverside Acres, Sands Trailer Court and Riha Lakes.
HEALTH CONCERNS
The floodwaters across Sarpy County are likely to be contaminated with sewage and other hazardous materials. Avoid direct contact with the floodwater and use caution when handling items that have come in contact with floodwater. Flooding can create conditions favorable for tetanus, and uncommon but very serious disease. Contact your healthcare provider to inquire about the status of your tetanus vaccine. It is recommended that adults receive a booster for tetanus every 10 years.
For more information on health concerns related to flooding, visit the Sarpy/Cass Health Department website: SarpyCassHealthDepartment.org [linkprotect.cudasvc.com].
UTILITIES
An electrical inspection may be required by local or state electrical authorities before service can be restored by OPPD. If you have access to your property, you can request an electrical inspection online at www.sarpy.com [linkprotect.cudasvc.com] or by calling 402-593-1555.
NATIONAL GUARD ASSISTING LAW ENFORCEMENT
Nebraska National Guard members are assisting deputies at several entry points across the county. We ask everyone to remember that Guard members are citizens who have stepped away from their jobs to help Sarpy County and its residents, and to be patient as there could be waits at the entry points.
RESOURCES FOR FLOOD VICTIMS
• Salvation Army Distribution Center
Those affected by flooding can get supplies at the distribution center at 8425 W. Center Road (former Canfield’s store) in Omaha. Items available (while supplies last): bottled water, mops, buckets, shovels, rakes, bleach, work gloves and household cleaning supplies. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday.
• Dial 211 or 211.org [linkprotect.cudasvc.com]
Those affected by flooding can call 211 or visit 211.org [linkprotect.cudasvc.com] for a resource directory. Callers will be connected to an operator who will assist them in finding resources and services available in the community
• SarpyFlood.org [linkprotect.cudasvc.com]
This website is hosted by local churches and organizations in cooperation with the Sarpy County Emergency Management Agency to provide information for flood victims and volunteer opportunities.
• Nebraska.gov/nebraska-strong [nebraska.gov]
The state’s website connects people to flood-related resources and assistance.
PETS AND LIVESTOCK
Residents concerned about pets or livestock should contact the Nebraska Humane Society [linkprotect.cudasvc.com] at 402-444-7800 ext. 1.
