SEATTLE - The American Red Cross is reminding people not to overlook the emotional aspect of recovery after the devastating floods.

KING

After a disaster, children may be afraid and need to be reassured that they are safe.

The Red Cross says disasters are upsetting experiences for everyone involved, but children, senior citizens, people with disabilities and people for whom English is not their first language are especially at risk. Some elderly people may seem disoriented at first and children may be afraid.

"When disaster strikes, a child's view of the world as a safe and predictable place is temporarily lost," said Lyle O'Neel, Red Cross disaster mental health worker. "Children become afraid that the event will happen again. How a parent or other adult reacts to a child following any traumatic event can help children recover more quickly and more completely."

The Red Cross says it’s important to let children and elderly people know that they are safe and that you will help them find a safe place to stay.

 Some basic steps you can take:

- Try to return to as many of your personal and family routines as possible.

- Get rest and drink plenty of water.

- Limit your exposure to the sights and sounds of disaster, especially on television, the radio and in the newspapers.

- Focus on the positive.

- Recognize your own feelings.

- Reach out and accept help from others.

- Do something you enjoy. Do something as a family that you have all enjoyed in the past.

- Stay connected with your family and/or other support systems.

- Realize that recovery can take time.

Take care of your pets

If you have pets, try to find and comfort them. A scared animal may react by biting or scratching. Handle animals carefully and calmly. Pets can become upset and react in unusual ways, such as spraying urine, defecating on floors or scratching/biting furnishings.

Since pets will need regular care and attention to help them calm down, try to leave pets with a family member, friend, veterinarian or boarding facility while you are cleaning up your home. Animals are naturally inquisitive and could get injured if they are brought back to a damaged home.

- Use toys, a blanket or favorite human's unsoiled clothing to comfort pets.

- Make sure pets are fed their usual diet, and have plenty of water.

- Visit your pets regularly, speak calmly and take some time out to play with them. Doing so can help you in your recovery, as well.

How you can help

To help residents who have been affected by the Washington State flooding please go to www.seattleredcross.org to make a secure online donation or call 1-800-REDCROSS. Checks can be made payable to the American Red Cross Serving King & Kitsap Counties, P.O. Box 3097, Seattle, WA  98114.