Chaves County Flooding

Recording of the November 13 Recovery Town Hall 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Cleaning up after a flood

Safe and timely cleanup is necessary for health and safety after a flood. Here are some important tips on how to do so safely and document any damage:

Prioritize safety. 

Wear protective gear such as long pants, sturdy shoes, goggles, gloves and masks when handling debris. Contact your local emergency manager if you have storm-related debris that poses a threat to public health or safety. Stay off damaged structures to prevent any injuries and watch out for snakes or animals. As you clear debris, look carefully for any visible cables and wait for professionals to handle them.

Take pictures

Documentation will be crucial for insurance claims and any federal assistance that may become available. Take pictures of the damage BEFORE you clean and repair.

Contact your insurance company early to file a claim.

Before starting the cleanup, document all damaged items with photographs, videos and keep all receipts for the work performed for insurance claims and other assistance programs.

Seek professional help. 

You can request assistance from volunteer organizations or companies who can help with cutting fallen trees, drywall, flooring and appliance removal, tarping roofs and mold mitigation.

Be cautious around power lines.

Never touch, cut, remove or place debris on downed power lines. As power is restored, this could cause damage, serious injury, or death. If you need to use a chainsaw during debris removal, take extra precautions to avoid contact with power lines and ensure that bystanders are at a safe distance.

Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. 

Follow the five basic steps for flood-damaged structures: air out, move out, tear out, clean out and dry out. Always wash your hands with soap and water after handling items contaminated by floodwater or sewage.

Be aware of hazardous materials and toxic substances.

Call your local fire department to inspect or remove chemicals, propane tanks and other hazardous materials. If you get your drinking water from a private well and your area has experienced flooding, make sure the water is safe before drinking. Seal hazardous debris in plastic bags to prevent them from becoming airborne and never burn debris as it can be toxic.

Know how to separate debris and where to place it. 

Never block the roadway with debris. Place debris away from trees, poles or structures, including fire hydrants and meters. You can separate debris into five categories when disposing along the curb:

• Electronics (such as televisions, computers, phones)
• Large appliances (such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, stoves or dishwashers. Be sure to seal or secure the doors so they are not accessible)
• Vegetative debris (such as tree branches, leaves or plants)
• Construction debris (such as drywall, lumber, carpet or furniture)
• Household garbage, discarded food, paper or packaging