Tips For Storm Debris Removal

More Information on Arkansas Severe Winter Storm

North Little Rock, Ark. February 9, 2009 -- Many Arkansans are faced now with cleaning up debris from the recent severe winter storms. State and federal specialists have some suggestions that may help.

Municipal, county, state, and federal agencies are not authorized to remove debris from private property except in situations where the debris is deemed to pose an extraordinary threat to human health and safety.

Property owners should make sure their debris piles don't block the right-of-way; obstruct fireplugs or utility meters; or block drains or ditches which can cause a risk of flooding.

People who are physically unable to move the debris to the curb should contact their local government or local charitable organizations. Volunteer groups may help the elderly and incapacitated move debris from their property and transport it to the curb/public right of way to be picked up by a municipality. They may also help people who are on a fixed income and unable to afford to hire a debris removal contractor.

If debris is too large, property owners may need to hire a debris removal contractor. Before hiring anyone, they should check with their insurance company to find out if their policy covers debris removal.

The state and federal government do not recommend or endorse any contractor. Property owners should be suspicious of any contractor who says, or presents literature, saying that they are working for or endorsed by any government agency.

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