Storm Flood Cleanup Checklist

5/31/2022 (Permalink)

A checklist of items that may be necessary and helpful during storm cleanup can help get you prepared ahead of time.

In the aftermath of a storm, whether from a thunderstorm or hurricane, you need to be prepared for cleanup. Cleanup can take days and should start as soon as the storm begins. The following is a checklist of items that may be necessary and helpful during cleanup: paper towels, garbage bags, tarp or plastic sheeting, shovels and rakes, and rubber gloves to protect your hands from bacteria in trash piles since they may not wash your hands or use gloves when cleaning up. Many areas will require you to drain standing water and empty couches at the local fire department. If there are items determined to be hazardous by local officials, they will be disposed of. 

During cleanup, you should wear protective clothing, including rubber boots. You could get injured or cut if you step on a sharp piece of wood or glass. If you have questions about what to do with certain items after the storm, contact your local health department or other authorities as necessary. Temporary power generators can help if your electricity is off for an extended period after a storm.

Steps To Cleanup After A Storm Flood

• If you have a generator, have it charged & ready to go after a storm. *If you don't have a generator, charge or buy one immediately.*
• Get shovels/ rakes, and do not try to haul water with hand tools. It can cause damage to your materials and equipment.
• Do not use gas-powered tools after the storm except for generators in case of a power outage.
• Storm drains should be swamped with heavy debris. It is best not to throw these into dumpsters or on the curb unless it is a trash bag.
• If you cannot lift a large item, such as a container, do not put it in your car. Call the city office to request a pickup.
• Bulk items that are heavy, such as refrigerators and furniture, should be wrapped in plastic sheeting and placed in the bed of your car.
• If you have standing water, drain it immediately. If your house is damaged, call the city office. If there is no place to drain the water right away, place small pieces of wood underneath a hazardous object and wait until the water has settled; then remove it.
• Trees blown over by strong winds may become hazardous because they may have broken branches or other parts that could come off and possibly harm someone.
• If you remove the carpet, use a duct cleaning machine to avoid the spread of mold.
• Do not use gas-powered machines or grills for cooking during cleanup.
• Do not throw fish in the grass or put them in bins at the curb or dumpster; it attracts other animals that could spread diseases.