Health & Safety Risks

Staying Safe During Cleanup Operations

1. Do:

• Wear protective gear at all times.

• Carry a communication device (walkie-talkie or cellphone).

• Look for electrical system damage, and turn off the electricity at the main switch if you

• can do this without risk (otherwise, call the power company or an electrician).

• Carry a stick to lift debris (after a flood, snakes and other animals may be hiding).

• Check for possible gas leaks; if you smell gas or hear blowing or hissing sounds, open a window and leave the building immediately.  Turn off the main gas valve from the outside, if you can do this safely, or call the gas company.  [Note:  after the main valve has been turned off, you will need to have the gas company turn it back on].

• Avoid prolonged exposure to heat and high humidity.

• Drink plenty of water — at least a gallon per person per day — and take frequent breaks.

• Set up a rest area, with a first-aid station (including eyewash kits), sanitary supplies, and drinking water and cups.

• If health problems develop, stop work and immediately seek medical attention.

• Keep tuned to emergency radio stations for updates.

2. Don’t:

• Don’t enter or work alone.

• Don’t work in spaces with mold outbreak unless you know the type of mold — and have proper protection.

• Don’t use gas-powered generators indoors.