In the wake of DeKalb’s nautical nuisance this weekend, many residents will have to deal with flood damages in their homes or on their property.

Public officials have outlined the specific procedures for cleanup and the disposal of destroyed material, as well as how to avoid the health hazards caused by the recent floods.

“Anything that’s come in contact with flood water is an unhealthy situation,” said Rick Monas, director of Public Works for the city.

While material destroyed by the flooding can be put out on parkways, Monas stressed the seriousness of how to properly dispose of ruined materials.

“It’s critical that people do not take loose debris and just toss it out there,” Monas said.

“It hampers our pick-up operation.”

Smaller items should be placed in trash bags or approved trash cans, and should not weigh more than 50 pounds. Large articles like mattresses, tables and other furniture can be left out for collection. However, other appliances like refrigerators, air conditioners and water heaters are not picked up by Waste Management.

Residents disposing of sandbags are being asked to create a separate pile aside from waste and destroyed articles.

“It is essential that these are not stored in the street,” Monas said. “It will interfere with storm drainage.” All rugs and carpeting should be cut into four foot wide sections, rolled and tied with string or twine.

Dumpsters have been placed throughout the city for residents to trash their debris. But Monas warns of the dangers of dumpster diving.

“It’s unhealthy and it’s unsafe and that just creates another mess,” Monas said.

As floodwaters are frequently tainted by raw sewage, it is vital that any areas which came in contact with flooding are disinfected and cleaned thoroughly.

“The biggest hazard with flood damage once the water’s gone back down is the bacteria that’s left behind,” said Russ Farnum, DeKalb community development director.

Farnum recommended bleach be used to cleanse contaminated areas.

“Always, when you’re working with chemicals, follow the directions on the label and wear protective gear,” Farnum said.