TALLAHASSEE, FL (352today.com) – Where to begin? That’s the question many storm victims are asking themselves after Hurricane Idalia turned their lives upside down on Wednesday.
Facing the overwhelming task of cleaning up water-logged homes, businesses, and mountains of debris, it’s tough to think straight.
There are steps you should take in the recovery process. First and foremost, take pictures of everything, advised Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) Director Kevin Guthrie during a briefing from the state Emergency Operations Center on Thursday.
Guthrie described the process of “muck and gut” as getting rid of anything that got wet from floodwater or rain. That includes things like drywall, carpet, furniture, etc.
As you discard damaged and destroyed items, FDEM requests that you separate your debris into different piles. “It will help us immensely… if you will separate your debris at the roadway,” said Guthrie. “Don’t put it in the road. Put it at the road’s edge. We need to be able to get up and down the roadways with emergency vehicles,” explained Guthrie.
FDEM asks that you separate your debris into distinct piles so that waste management services can more easily remove and properly dispose of the debris. Those piles are:
- Vegetative Debris – Trees, limbs, plants
- Hazardous Waste – Paints, cleaning supplies, chemicals
- Construction Debris – Drywall, lumber, furniture, carpet
- Household Garbage – Discarded food, paper goods
- Large Appliances – Refrigerators, stoves, washers, dryers
- Electronics – Televisions, gaming consoles, computers
When tearing out drywall, Guthrie recommends you go 6 to 12 inches above the high-water mark. “You’re going to want to dry out the studs. Make sure you clean those studs appropriately before you sheetrock back in… clean and sanitize everything,” advised Guthrie.
If your home has a lot of flood damage, make sure your electricity is off and that you are wearing the appropriate safety gear before entering your home said Guthrie.
Guthrie says the clean-up efforts can be dangerous and a lot of injuries occur during the recovery process.
FDEM says the three things that cause most deaths and injuries after a disaster involve generators, chainsaws, and ladders. They have these tips to keep you safe:
- Generators – Operate at least 20 feet away from open windows and doors. Never indoors.
- Chainsaws – Wear appropriate googles and head protection.
- Ladders – Don’t get on the top rung of a ladder.
FDEM has a comprehensive guide with useful information in the recovery process. You can find it here.
FDEM also says if you need help cleaning up from the storm, you can contact Crisis Cleanup. Call by September 15. Services are free but not guaranteed. The Hurricane Idalia Home Cleanup Hotline is 1-800-451-1954.
