Southwest Florida has weathered its share of storms, and while Hurricane Helene brought less destruction to Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and Pinellas Counties than previous storms, the aftermath still presents risks. Cleanup can be dangerous, and if not handled carefully, it can result in injuries or property damage.
At Goldman Babboni Fernandez Murphy & Walsh, we are dedicated to helping individuals recover from accidents, and that includes protecting you during storm recovery. Whether you’re tackling cleanup yourself or hiring help, it’s crucial to prioritize safety for both yourself and others.
Mitigating Storm Cleanup Dangers
Storms bring chaos, and with that comes hidden dangers that aren’t always obvious in the rush to restore normalcy. Whether it’s clearing debris or inspecting damage to your property, you need to take steps to stay safe:
- Be aware of electrical hazards: Downed power lines, particularly those hidden by trees or water, are extremely dangerous. Always assume any wire is live and report it to the authorities.
- Use equipment with caution: If you’re operating chainsaws or other machinery, follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines closely. Improper use can lead to serious injuries.
- Flooded areas pose health risks: Floodwaters may contain harmful bacteria or chemicals, so avoid contact as much as possible.
- Lift carefully: Overexertion from lifting debris can cause back or muscle injuries. Be mindful of your physical limits and ask for help if needed.
Remember, rushing to complete cleanup can increase your risk of injury. Protecting your health and safety is more important than speeding through the process.
Securing Your Property and Avoiding Legal Risks
Cleaning up your home and yard isn’t just about restoring order—it’s also about making sure your property is safe for others. If you neglect certain hazards, you could be held accountable if someone is injured on your property.
In Florida, premises liability laws hold property owners responsible for keeping their property reasonably safe. That means after a storm, you must ensure hazards are removed, or adequately warned against, to prevent accidents. Hazards like loose roofing materials, tree limbs, or slippery driveways can easily lead to injury.
Here’s how you can protect yourself from legal risks:
- Tidy up debris: Fallen branches and debris can cause trips and falls. Clear your walkways and outdoor areas as quickly as possible.
- Address potential fall hazards: Water-soaked steps or tiles become slick and dangerous. Apply non-slip treatments or barriers to warn guests.
- Secure loose items: High winds can loosen patio furniture or fencing. Secure these items to prevent them from causing further damage or injury.
By taking proactive measures, you help ensure the safety of your family, visitors, and neighbors, and reduce your liability in case of an accident.
Extending Support to Our Neighbors in the Big Bend
Although Southwest Florida avoided the worst of Hurricane Helene, other parts of the state were not so fortunate. In the Big Bend area, the storm came ashore as a Category 4 hurricane, bringing catastrophic flooding and storm surges up to 20 feet. Entire communities are now facing the daunting task of rebuilding.
If you are looking for ways to help, consider donating to trusted relief organizations such as the Red Cross. Your support can make a big difference for those still struggling in the aftermath.
Goldman Babboni Fernandez Murphy & Walsh: Here to Support You
At Goldman Babboni Fernandez Murphy & Walsh, we understand the challenges you face in the wake of a storm—especially if an accident occurs during cleanup. With decades of experience, our senior partners have successfully represented injured victims throughout Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and Pinellas counties.
Unlike many other law firms, we represent only injured individuals, never insurance companies. If you’ve been hurt or face complications after an accident, we’ll stand by you every step of the way, fighting for a fair and just resolution to your case.
Remember, while storm recovery can be overwhelming, focusing on safety first will protect both your health and the well-being of your community. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you or a loved one need help. Our experienced legal team is here to ensure you have the support you need during difficult times.
The post Post-Storm Safety: How to Protect Yourself and Your Property After Hurricane Helene appeared first on Justice Pays.
