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Unseen Hazards after a Cyclone: Dealing with Cyclone Debbie

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Unseen Hazards after a Cyclone: Dealing with Cyclone Debbie

By
Jeremy Trotman
on 06 Apr 2017 11:16 AM
Blog Category: Safety Blog

Cyclone Debbie may have passed, but conditions are still potentially hazardous for residents who are now attempting to clean up the mess left behind. It is understandable that a natural disaster will elicit a hugely emotional response for affected residents as they survey the damage to their homes. However, it is important to stay vigilant to dangers that are still present after the storm has moved on. These threats to safety may not always be visible to the naked eye, which is all the more reason to take precautions to protect yourself in the response phase of a disaster.

 

 

Immediate unseen hazards to residents after a cyclone include:

  • 1) Asbestos exposure When assessing the damage to your home, asbestos exposure is not likely to be at the top of your mind. But the truth is that building debris could potentially contain asbestos. When asbestos particles are disturbed and dislodged from their previously stable state, they become airborne, thereby posing a serious health risk.
  • 2) Mould growth The first 48 hours after a flood are crucial to the growth of toxic mould on building structures and belongings. Even objects that have not had direct contact with flood water can still be affected by mould. Hours of dampness and resulting mould growth on buildings can cause structural collapses, while also being hazardous to persons breathing in mould spores.
  • 3) Unsupervised DIY repairs Water damage or trapped flood waters may create a need to remove walls or other parts of buildings. However, doing it yourself could expose you to risks associated with inhaling asbestos or mould spores, not to mention other common biological and chemical substances often present in flood waters. Don’t gamble with your health. Get professionals to help you manage the damage. Let them test for hazardous materials before any deconstruction or restoration works begin.

Taking the time to plan and manage the potential hazardous materials and biological risks present in the wake of a cyclone will ensure you protect your own and your family’s health and safety.

Read more here about extreme weather and the dangers of water damage.

Need Advice on Asbestos and Mould?

Witnessing the impact of Cyclone Debbie on our nation has been heartbreaking.

At JTA, we are offering free telephone advice to affected residents on areas of our expertise such as post-flood asbestos and mould management.

If you have been affected or know anyone who needs our help, please pass on our phone number 1300 856 282.

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