Sydney Floods: Sydney Suburbs Become Rubbish Dumping Ground During Flood

Cheapest Load of Rubbish

With much of the Sydney region still battling flood waters, the clean-up has begun for many others. The unpredictable weather systems could mean more rain is on the way, so residents are being urged to take care and stay at home as much as possible.

While the loss of homes and destruction from building collapses is devastating, there’s an underlying issue that could create problems well into the future. Unfortunately, with floods comes debris, and while it’s natural there would be a lot of debris after such an event, it’s also creating havoc.

Flooding has the potential to have a significant influence on the environment, which can impact the local waterways, groundwater systems, and connecting aquatic habitats. But there are hidden dangers as well. When there is a flood, the water can also contain a range of impurities, including toxic substances and chemical waste. Bacteria and pesticides are among the pollutants found in floodwater, as well as algae and phytoplankton. And of course, as older buildings collapse under the pressure of the turning weather, asbestos also becomes a major health hazard.

How To Help With Flood Clean Up

As flood waters recede, the amount of rubbish expected to line the streets is enormous, and you can already see how Queensland and Lismore residents have started their own clean-up battle. The Sydney region is still on edge waiting for their turn and many are prepping their gum boots and raincoats, ready to hit the streets.

If you want to help or need to clean up your own flooded property, here are some tips to make the process more efficient:

  • Remember flood waters can be dangerous and may be contaminated, so always wear protective equipment for all tasks. This includes tough boots that can protect from tetanus if you were to stand on something rusty, long pants and long sleeves to protect from bugs, dust and debris, eye protection and gloves. You should also wear a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent.

  • Keep an eye out for dangers and hazards. This could include snakes, spiders and other animals that have taken up residence in your home. It could also be power lines that have fallen (call energy authorities asap – never touch a fallen power line), or trees that could fall without warning.

  • Don’t let kids assist with the cleanup. There’s too much danger involved when cleaning up after a flood and children running around could pose more risk – to themselves, to your safety, and to the home’s foundations.

  • Make sure you don’t touch any electricals that may have been exposed to water, unless all power to the property is turned off first. And all electrical equipment (including vacuum cleaners) should be dried and checked by an electrician before you start using it again.

  • If you happen upon some asbestos lying in the wake of the floods, the best advice is to simply walk away. Don’t touch it. If you touch it before realising, wash your hands immediately and change your clothes. Use a damp rag to pat any dust away. When dealing with asbestos you should always have full PPE on, make sure it is wet before you touch it, and keep other people away from it. The best idea, though, is to call someone who is trained to deal with it instead.

Correct Disposal Of Rubbish

The correct disposal of rubbish is crucial in the clean-up, particularly when it comes to hazardous material. Rubbish removal companies like Cheapest Load of Rubbish are on board and available to assist – ensuring all rubbish is disposed of in a proper manner. If goods are salvageable, they will be taken care of. If they can be recycled, Cheapest Load of Rubbish are on hand to distribute them to local recycle centres. If rubbish is posing a danger and needs careful handling, it’s best to leave that to the professionals as well.

Don’t try to take care of rubbish cleanup yourself. Call in the professionals at Cheapest Load of Rubbish to assist. Available daily to assist with flood damage clean-up, the team at Cheapest Load of Rubbish are ready to take your call.

/Public Release.