You can take precaution during your hurricane clean up to protect yourself and your loved ones. In addition to listening for up-to-date emergency information on the radio or television, here are seven additional clean up tips.
1. Get the Right Safety Gear for Hurricane Clean Up
You should have the following when going to an area that has been hit by a hurricane:
- Hard hat
- Goggles
- A respirator with a higher protection level (N95 masks are best)
- Heavy work gloves
- Waterproof steel toe and insole boots
- Earplugs or protective headphones
- Minimum or two fire extinguishers with a UL rating of 10A
Make sure to wear the following if sewage is involved:
- Rubber boots
- Rubber gloves
- Goggles
2. Use Teams to Move Heavy or Bulky Objects
There should be at least two people working together when moving heavy or bulky objects during hurricane clean up. Items shouldn’t be lifted if they weigh over 50 pounds per person.
3. Pace Yourself
Here are some ways to take care of yourself when cleaning your home during a hurricane clean up:
- Rest whenever you need to
- Focus on the most important cleanup jobs first – you’ll be less overwhelmed this way
- Try finding other people to work with, so you aren’t working alone
- Get support from family, friends, counselor, or therapist
4. Take Precaution When Using a Chainsaw
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions
- Wear appropriate protective gear
- Bystanders need to be a safe distance away
- Avoid contact with power lines
- Be careful when cutting trees or branches that are bent or caught under something else
- Use extreme caution to avoid electrical shock while using an electric chainsaw
5. Stay Safe in Hot Weather
You can try staying cool in hot weather by:
- Staying in air-conditioned buildings
- Taking breaks in a shaded area or cool room
- Drinking water and other nonalcoholic drinks often
- Wearing light and loose-fitting clothes
- Doing outdoor activities during cooler hours
6. Disinfect Children’s Toys
Anything that has touched floodwater may be contaminated with germs. It’s best to make sure your children’s toys are clean to keep them safe. Here is how properly disinfect the toys during hurricane clean up:
- Mix 1 cup of bleach and 5 gallons of water
- Wash off toys carefully with the bleach water
- Leave the toys to air dry
You might not be able to disinfect toys like stuffed animals and baby toys. Throw out all toys that you can’t clean.
7. Wash Up with Soap and Water
Once you’re done cleaning, wash yourself off with soap and water. When boil-water advisory is in effect during hurricane clean up:
- Use water that has been boiled for 1 minute (allow the water to cool before washing); or
- Use water that’s been disinfected for personal hygiene
You may have any open cuts or sores that were exposed to floodwater. They should still be washed with soap and water. Then, to prevent infection, apply an antibiotic ointment.
All clothes that were worn during the hurricane clean up need to be washed in hot water and with detergent. Make sure that they are washed separately from any uncontaminated clothes and linens.
By following these tips, your hurricane clean up will be safe. Remember, if your home suffered hurricane damage, Aftermath Adjusters & Consulting is there to help. We will work with your insurance company to help you get the best payout possible and get your home back to normal.
