Safely cleaning up after a storm

If you live in an area that’s prone to hurricanes, tropical storms and tornadoes, you know the devastation they can cause. Clean up can take days, weeks and even months. Often, the cleanup can be as dangerous as the storms themselves.

Emergency medicine physician William Jackson, MD, said there are several common injuries that people sustain during storm cleanup. Here are the most frequent types of injuries to watch out for and some tips to prevent them.

Lacerations. Cuts can be caused by broken glass, sharp debris, nails and damaged structures like torn roofing or siding often cause cuts. To protect yourself, be sure to wear work gloves, long sleeves, pants and boots. When you can, use tools instead of your hands to pick up sharp objects.

Falls. Unstable surfaces, wet or muddy conditions, and climbing ladders or roofs can lead to falls.

To prevent a fall, avoid climbing on roofs or ladders unless necessary and use proper safety equipment. If you find that you need to use a ladder, make sure it’s stable and level and that you have someone watching out for you nearby. Wearing slip-resistant shoes can be helpful, too.

Also, be aware of any slippery surfaces, loose debris or hidden holes.

Sprains, strains and muscle injuries. Improperly lifting heavy debris, branches or equipment can lead to back strains, sprained ankles or muscle injuries. Avoid this by bending your knees and lifting with your legs, not your back. Ask for help or use a wheelbarrow or dolly when lifting heavy objects and be sure to take plenty of breaks to avoid overexertion.

Heat-related Illnesses. When the weather is hot and humid, cleaning up after a storm can lead to heat exhaustion or heat stroke, so be sure to stay hydrated. Stick to drinking water and not alcohol or caffeinated beverages. Sports drinks can also help you replenish electrolytes after sweating if you’re otherwise well hydrated.

To protect yourself from the sun, wear lightweight, light-colored clothes and don’t forget a hat. Also, take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors, especially during the hottest part of the day.

Electrical injuries. Downed power lines, flooded areas with electrical currents and improper use of power tools or generators can cause electrical shocks or burns. Always be sure to stay away from and report downed power lines. Do not touch electrical devices or cords while standing in water or with wet hands. If you’re using a generator, follow proper safety guidelines. Keep it outdoors and far from windows. Never run a generator in a closed garage.

Head injuries. Falling objects, tree limbs or debris during cleanup can cause head trauma. Be sure to wear a hard hat when working in areas where there is a risk of falling debris or when cutting branches. A good rule of thumb is to always keep a lookout for hazards overhead.

Puncture wounds. Stepping on nails, sharp debris or broken glass can lead to deep puncture wounds. Wearing thick-soled, closed-toe boots can protect your feet, and be cautious when walking through debris, especially where sharp objects may be hidden.

Burns. Fires, improper use of power equipment, or contact with hot surfaces on machinery like generators or chainsaws can lead to burns. Always allow machinery to cool before touching or refueling. Wear protective gear when operating chainsaws and follow proper handling instructions.

Carbon monoxide poisoning. Improper use of generators or fuel-powered equipment in enclosed spaces can cause carbon monoxide buildup, so only use generators outdoors, far from doors, windows and vents. Installing battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors in your home will alert you if carbon monoxide levels are high.

Eye injuries. Dust, debris and chemicals can get into the eyes during cleanup activities, so always wear safety goggles or a face shield. Be cautious when handling chemicals like bleach or cleaners and follow proper usage instructions.

Infections. Exposure to contaminated floodwaters, dirty debris or puncture wounds can lead to infections such as tetanus or other bacterial infections. Try to avoid direct contact with floodwaters or contaminated debris by wearing protective clothing. If you sustain any cuts or wounds, clean and disinfect them immediately. Seek a tetanus shot if your vaccination is not up to date.

Overexertion. Overworking yourself, especially in high-stress situations, can lead to exhaustion, dehydration and cardiovascular problems. To avoid this, be sure to take regular breaks to rest. Listen to your body and stop if you feel fatigued or unwell. If you have underlying health conditions, avoid heavy lifting or intense physical activity.

“For general safety purposes, it’s best to work in teams, especially when dealing with heavy lifting or potentially hazardous conditions,” Dr. Jackson said. “If dust or mold is present, wearing personal protective equipment, or PPE, is a must. This includes gloves, hard hats, safety goggles, long sleeves, sturdy boots and face masks. And always keep a first aid kit nearby to quickly treat any minor injuries, such as cuts, burns or sprains.”

Being aware of these risks and taking the proper precautions can help reduce your chances of injury during storm cleanup efforts and help you get back to normal as soon as possible. If you are injured, here are some tips on when urgent care or emergency care is more appropriate.