First and foremost, donot return home until instructed by the appropriate local authorities. Once they give the go-ahead:
Return home during daylight hours, especially if power has not been restored.
If you smell gas, leave the premises and notify emergency authorities immediately. Do not turn on lights, light matches, or engage in any activity that could create a spark.
Yes. Even if you have been authorized to return home, you should still take precautions to protect yourself from electrical hazards posed by downed power lines, flooded areas, and water-damaged appliances and electrical equipment.