Cleanup & Safety

It’s natural to want to begin cleaning immediately, but your first priority should always be safety.

Before you start:

• Check for immediate hazards.
• Wear proper protective equipment.
• Keep children and pets away from damaged areas.
• Confirm utilities are safe before restoring service.
• Photograph damage before moving anything.

A careful inspection today can prevent an emergency tomorrow.

Not every danger is obvious after a hurricane.

Be alert for:

• Downed power lines
• Standing floodwater
• Unstable trees
• Damaged roofs
• Broken glass
• Exposed nails
• Gas leaks
• Damaged electrical systems
• Wildlife displaced by flooding

If something doesn’t look safe, don’t take unnecessary risks.

Floodwater can contain:

• Sewage
• Chemicals
• Fuel
• Sharp debris
• Hidden holes
• Fire ants
• Snakes
• Bacteria

Never allow children or pets to play in floodwater.

Wear waterproof boots and gloves whenever contact is possible.

Wash thoroughly after exposure.

Cleanup is physically demanding.

Protect yourself with:

• Heavy work gloves
• Safety glasses
• Long sleeves
• Long pants
• Waterproof boots
• N95 respirator or better when cleaning mold or dusty debris
• Hearing protection when using power equipment

The right gear can prevent cuts, infections, eye injuries, and respiratory problems.

Portable generators save lives—but improper use can be deadly.

Always:

• Operate generators outdoors.
• Keep them well away from doors, windows, and garages.
• Never run a generator inside a home or enclosed space.
• Allow generators to cool before refueling.
• Use properly rated extension cords.

Install and test carbon monoxide detectors before hurricane season.

Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and can become fatal within minutes.

Even after the power goes out, electrical hazards remain.

Never:

• Touch downed power lines.
• Enter flooded areas where electricity may be present.
• Restore power if wiring appears damaged.
• Operate electrical equipment while standing in water.

If you’re unsure, have a qualified electrician inspect your system before restoring power.

Cleanup often involves cutting fallen trees and removing debris.

Before using power equipment:

• Wear eye and hearing protection.
• Use protective footwear.
• Keep bystanders away.
• Avoid working alone.
• Never operate equipment when you’re exhausted.

Fatigue causes mistakes.

Take breaks often, especially in hot weather.

Recovery often happens without air conditioning.

Work during the cooler parts of the day whenever possible.

Remember to:

• Drink water regularly.
• Wear lightweight clothing.
• Rest frequently.
• Watch for signs of heat exhaustion.
• Check on older adults and neighbors.

Recovery is a marathon—not a sprint.

Mold can begin growing within 24 to 48 hours after water damage.

If your home has flooded:

• Remove wet materials quickly.
• Improve ventilation.
• Dry affected areas thoroughly.
• Wear respiratory protection during cleanup.
• Consider professional remediation for extensive mold growth.

The sooner moisture is removed, the easier recovery becomes.

After a prolonged power outage:

• Throw away food that has become unsafe.
• Discard items that have come into contact with floodwater.
• Use bottled or properly treated water until local officials declare tap water safe.
• Clean and sanitize food preparation surfaces before use.

When in doubt, throw it out.

Replacing food is far less costly than recovering from foodborne illness.

Before you clean:

• Photograph every room.
• Take close-up and wide-angle pictures.
• Record damaged belongings.
• Save receipts for emergency purchases.
• Keep repair estimates.
• Track temporary housing costs.

Good documentation helps support insurance claims and disaster assistance applications.

Recovery is stronger when communities work together.

If it’s safe to do so:

• Check on older adults.
• Help neighbors clear debris.
• Share accurate information.
• Offer supplies when possible.
• Watch for signs that someone may need medical attention.

A few minutes of kindness can make a difficult day easier.

Rushing Back Home

Wait until officials declare your area safe.

Ignoring Protective Equipment

Gloves, boots, and eye protection are essential.

Running a Generator Indoors

Carbon monoxide poisoning can occur within minutes.

Cleaning Before Taking Photos

Always document damage first.

Working Alone

Whenever possible, clean up with another person nearby.

Pushing Yourself Too Hard

Recovery takes time. Pace yourself.

Before you begin:

✔ Home declared safe to enter

✔ Utilities inspected

✔ Damage documented

✔ Protective equipment available

✔ Generator positioned outdoors

✔ Drinking water available

✔ First aid kit nearby

✔ Family members accounted for

✔ Emergency contacts accessible

Continue your recovery with:

• Reentry Guidance – Returning home safely.
• Insurance & Damage Tips – Protect your claim and document losses.
• Community Support – Find assistance and recovery resources.
• Medical & Safety – Build a complete emergency medical plan before the next storm.

The work of cleaning up after a hurricane can feel urgent, but your safety should never be rushed.

Take the time to inspect your surroundings, protect yourself with the right equipment, and ask for help when a task exceeds your experience or abilities.

Your home can be repaired and rebuilt.

Your health and the safety of your family should always come first.