Don’t Pile Debris Near Fire Hydrants and Utility Poles + More Debris Cleanup Tips

As you file insurance claims and register with FEMA, cleanup from the August 2016 floods is beginning or continuing in South Louisiana, there are some things you should keep in mind. Sorting debris and not piling it up near fire hydrants and utility poles is important.

Here are some more tips from FEMA:

- Mold may be a serious health risk so don’t wait for a visit from FEMA or your insurance company before you start cleaning up. FEMA inspectors and insurance claims adjusters will still be able to verify flood damage.
- Because mold may be a serious health risk, it’s important to remove flood-damaged valuables from your home. Take lots of pictures before your insurance adjuster visits.
- Be sure to consult with your local officials for instructions before setting out debris. If you don’t have local emergency management contact information, it can be found online at gohsep.la.gov/about/parishpa.
- Place debris curbside. Debris cannot be collected on private property.
- Do not prop up debris against trees and utility poles or place in the vicinity of fire hydrants and utility boxes. That makes it more difficult for cleanup crews to collect.
- Debris should be separated into the following six categories:
  o Household garbage such as discarded food, packaging and papers.
     o Construction debris such as building materials, carpeting, furniture and mattresses.
     o Vegetation debris such as tree branches and leaves.
     o Household hazardous waste such as batteries, paints and cleaning supplies.
     o White goods such as refrigerators, washers/dryers, water heaters and air conditioners.
     o Electronics such as televisions, stereo equipment and computers.
 - Go online to this link to see a graphic that explains how to sort debris: www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/images/110554
 - Other tips to speed up debris collection include:
     o Try to combine debris piles with your neighbors.
     o Secure refrigerator and freezer doors with duct tape.
     o Limit curbside household garbage to two 32-gallon containers or eight trash bags.

- Get more and tips on flood clean up, repairing, and rebuilding at www.fema.gov/Louisiana-disaster-mitigation.

 

Special note for Broussard Residents:

The City of Broussard has completed its first round of flood debris pickup.  Debris pickup will resume on Monday. August 22, 2016. The City is asking residents, as they continue to take debris out of their homes, to please place it curbside for pickup.