According to a press release, the International Cleaning and Restoration Association (ICRA) has created a consumer website to help property owners recover from flood waters as a result of Hurricane Sandy and to help understand the restoration process.

When returning to your home after a natural disaster, you need to be alert to various health and safety hazards that might exist. Flood waters can contain sewage related organisms, chemicals, organic and non organic soils and debris. As water remains in contact with your home and contents, molds can begin to grow. Animals and insects can present additional problems. Power to your home may or may not have been shut off. Electrical hazards are a major concern when working in a wet damp environment. If you have gas fired appliances that are operating, combustion gases may not be properly vented from the structure and can result in carbon monoxide poisoning or fire.

To learn more about restoration and disaster preparedness, go to www.aboutrestoration.com.