Cleaning up after a devastating natural disaster can be harrowing, both physically and emotionally.
We're no strangers to floods here in the Northern Rivers and the list below has been compiled and shared by locals who have learnt a thing or two from previous years' flood events.
Wear a mask at all times
You could try spraying with diluted essential oils to help combat smell.
Think what must go immediately
Get the carpets out ASAP - they will never be salvaged and will mould up quickly and cause problems. If you have power, start to get fans in there to help dry things out.
Useful items to take with you
Gloves, garbage bags, brooms, rakes, wheelbarrows, enclosed shoes, work boots or gumboots, cleaning products and cloths, white vinegar and clove oil (helps with mould), rope and pegs. Degreaser is great as there is plenty of oil in the water. Water pressure cleaners and generators with spare fuel, if available.
Fresh drinking water
Remember to drink regularly to stay hydrated!
Storage containers
Zippable shopping tote bags and plastic containers are great for storing things that have been washed and disinfected as boxes will disintegrate.
What to wear
Wear suitable protective clothing, including boots and gloves, and apply sunscreen and insect repellent regularly – mosquitos love wet areas!
Avoiding infections
Due to sewage in the flood water, be sure to cover up any cuts and avoid shaving any areas of skin that may be exposed to dirt/water. Where possible have your tetanus shot up to date. Carefully clean cuts etc each evening with disinfectants.
Insurance claims
Take lots of photos of damage before the cleanup starts, including serial numbers of appliances such as TVs, computers etc for insurance purposes.
Think what can be saved
Don't throw out old timber as it does dry out, kitchenware can also be washed. Some appliances can work once they’ve been dried out and checked by an electrician. Some photos and documents can dry out then rephotographed or scanned.
Avoid leaving items drying on the footpath
Keep salvaged items separate in a spot like the back yard, so they're not picked up by the council for the tip.
Electrics
Have electrical devices and power outlets checked by a qualified electrician before use. Be aware that solar panels may still be generating power. Check the Essential Energy website for more information.
Mud Army Volunteers
If you are part of the mud army assisting others, please be gentle and respectful with every move. Remember it's someone's life going on the trash pile. The owner is going to be overwhelmed so don't push them - if they say no to throwing something out then do not override them, listen to them. Also, if you can’t help directly, delivering snacks and cold drinks is an amazing thing you can do.
Further tips can be accessed at the SES website and the NSW Health website.
