Hurricane Clean Up Safety

After a hurricane or tropical storm, it’s important to stay level-headed and remember hurricane clean-up safety. Naturally, often in the throes of anger and other negative emotions, you might try to act as quickly as possible to try to recover your livelihood, but there are dangers lurking in the post-storm mess.

Take it Slow and Stay Safe

The storm may have passed, but the danger isn’t over. As the skies clear and floodwaters begin to recede, new hazards emerge. Fallen trees, downed power lines, contaminated water, and scattered debris are just a few of the risks that first responders and cleanup crews face after a hurricane or localized flooding. But many dangers aren’t immediately visible.

At PuroClean, our experienced teams understand the critical safety protocols required for post-storm and flood cleanup. As a trusted first-response contractor, we’re equipped to handle every step with care, precision, and a focus on protecting both people and property.

Realize the Dangers

As cleanup begins in affected areas, workers and residents alike may unknowingly encounter hidden safety and health-compromising conditions. These dangers include contaminated water, polluted air, mold, contagious diseases, carbon monoxide, and insects. Being aware of such hazards allows individuals to protect themselves and their crews from dermal, inhalation, and respiratory exposure.

Risks in Floodwaters

Floodwater and standing water can pose serious health risks. These waters often carry sewage, harmful chemicals, bloodborne pathogens, and other potentially infectious materials (OPIM). Sharp debris like broken glass or jagged metal may also be hidden beneath the surface, increasing the risk of injury.

As emergency restoration professionals, PuroClean understands the importance of protecting both our team and the people we serve. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE) is essential when entering flood-affected areas. Depending on conditions, this may include hip waders, rubber boots with steel toes and shanks, heavy-duty gloves, eye protection, and a hard hat.

Risks in the Air

Air pollution after the storm is also a significant health hazard. As contaminated waters begin to recede and dry out, mud and silt begin to settle on roads and the interiors and exteriors of buildings. After this mud and silt dries, vehicles and workers entering affected areas stir up this contaminated residue, making it airborne and easy to breathe in, which can cause lingering respiratory symptoms, including cough, runny nose, lung infections, and sinus problems.

In these situations, PPE that protects from ingestion, inhalation, and dermal contact should be considered. This includes eye protection, appropriate respirators, and may even require disposable coveralls with a hood and rubber boots

Contact us for Your Hurricane Cleanup Needs

After a flood, quick action is essential to prevent lasting damage and mold growth. For water removal services and mold cleaning services in Cranford, NJ and nearby cities, contact PuroClean Restoration Services immediately. (908) 577-9120. Our IICRC-certified technicians will arrive at your location promptly to prevent further water damage and mold growth.

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