Clean up after a disaster often poses a whole set of dangers that extend beyond the immediate danger of the disaster itself. Please read and be prepared to execute the following post-disaster clean-up tips following a disaster.

The most important and immediate worry during a disaster is rescuing those who have been injured during a disaster, and those that are in imminent danger if being injured. Emergency services should be called in to execute victim rescue operations. Do not try to put your own life in danger when attempting to rescue others. Do only what you know can be done without compromising your own life.

Avoid driving through areas where water covers the road. More people drown in their cars than anywhere else. If you come upon an area where the road is covered with water, turn around and find another route. If you do attempt to cross water, and your car stalls, evacuate the car immediately and try to reach higher ground.

Do not walk through flowing water. Six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. In floods, more specifically flash floods, drowning is the number one cause of death. It is a good idea to check the firmness of the ground with an object such as a stick before trusting it.

Avoid any downed power lines and electrical wires, and report them to your utility company or local emergency manager. Electrical current can travel through water, so electrocution is a major killer in flooded areas.

Check for structural damage before entering a damaged or flooded building. Look for sagging support beams in the attic or floor, and cracks in the walls, stucco, bricks or foundation as evidence of shifting caused by the high winds or water.

Make sure that there are not gas leaks in the area. Don't smoke or use candles, lanterns or open flames unless you are sure that the gas has been turned off and the area has been aired out. Carbon monoxide exhaust kills. All gas powers generators, stoves and lanterns should be used outside only.

Turn off your electricity when you return to your home or business. Some appliances may still shock you, even though they are unplugged, due to water damage. Do not use appliances that have been exposed to flood water.

Watch where you step after a disaster. The ground may be littered with everything from broken glass and tree branches to downed power lines. The ground may also be slippery due to excessive water or ice/snow.

It is important to dress properly during disaster cleanup to aid in your own safety. Wear heavy pants and long sleeve shirt, or coveralls. Use heavy work gloves or leather gloves. Wear durable work boots with intact soles and steel toes if possible. DO NOT wear sneakers or open toed shoes! When using tools wear spproved impact resistant safety glasses. Power tools require additional protection.

Keep informed of the situation at hand with a battery operated radio. This will provide you with information on where dangerous situations, such as downed power lines and flooding, are actively occurring.

Watch for animals, especially snakes. Disasters run both wild and domesticated animals out of their homes, and force them to seek shelter in homes that are still standing. Be aware of this as you return to your home.

All items that have gotten wet during a flood, need to be cleaned. Flood waters can carry sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, factories and storage buildings. Spoiled food products, cosmetics, and medicines should be disposed of. When doubtful of an item, it is safer to throw it out.

Be aware of remaining healthy as you attempt to clean up after a disaster. Do not attempt to lift anything over fifty pounds on your own. When lifting, use proper lifting techniques to aid in decreasing the occurrance of back injury. Make sure you drink plenty of fluids, especially water. Also allow for frequent rest periods.