Robust weather systems, such as hurricanes and tropical storms, can result in widespread flooding and debris. These systems come with torrential rain and storm surges that can cause flooding and damage roadways, buildings, electrical cables, and other property.
Cleaning up after a storm or hurricane requires care since some people in flooded areas might be at risk from sharp objects and harmful substances during cleaning up. We want to remind you of what you can do when it’s time to clean up after a hurricane or tropical storm.
20 Crucial safety tips for cleaning up after a storm or hurricane.
1. Find out if your relatives and neighbours need help.
2. Try to get medical assistance for injured persons at the nearest hospital, clinic, or health centre.
3. Pay attention to updates and instructions from the relevant authorities before venturing out.
4. Wear gloves, safety helmets, high-visibility clothing, goggles, safety footwear, or other protective clothing.
5. Work with a partner or group so you have someone else nearby to help with large objects or if you encounter challenges.
6. If phone systems are busy, communicate with others using text messages, emails, or social media. Save phone calls for emergencies only.
7. Don’t touch dangling or loose electrical wires. Ensure you report them to the relevant authorities immediately.
8. In flooded areas, sharp objects or fallen electrical wires may be hidden below. Do not wade in or allow your children to play in floodwaters.
9. Remember to report sewage leakages and broken water pipes to the relevant authorities.
10. Pile debris and fallen branches in an area that is not a hazard to others but can be easily collected.
11. You can dispose of contaminated water but keep stored water until you regain regular water services.
12. Boil all water used for drinking until the water supply is restored.
13. To reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, keep a generator at least 20 feet outside, away from windows and doors.
14. Wash your hands with soap and water after contact with floodwaters.
15. Do not drive through flooded areas.
16. If possible, trap rodents and keep food and garbage covered.
17. Cover all cuts or abrasions with waterproof bandages to reduce the risk of leptospirosis from water or soil contaminated by infected animal urine.
18. Throw away medication that requires refrigeration or has touched floodwaters.
19. Reduce the moisture in your home, as this can cause mould exposure. Clean areas with mould and fix broken pipes and leaking roofs.
20. Do not eat food that hasn’t been adequately refrigerated (eggs, meat, milk, seafood, etc.) or contaminated in floodwaters.
Safety is crucial during cleaning to prevent further damage or physical harm. Please use Find Yello to search for hardware stores, home centres and other relevant businesses that can help.
Sources: ODPEM, CDC, and Ready Gov.
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