Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Storm Clean-Up Begins At Home

With the disaster over, it's time to begin cleaning up after it.

According to information from the Arkansas Department of Emergency Management (ADEM), step one begins at home with the property owner.

It is important for homeowners to be wary of those who offer to remove the debris for them without a contract of some type.

By law, city, county and state governments can't remove debris from private property, unless there's a threat to human health and safety. Otherwise, the owner of the property is responsible for removing the debris.

When getting rid of the downed limbs and trees, people should remember not to stack it near fire hydrants or block any drains or utility meters. In addition, the refuse shouldn't be put in ditches, as it could cause flooding later on.

Those unable to do this themselves should contact their local leaders. Civic and church groups exist across the state whose members are willing to pitch in and help those who can't help themselves.

But if the debris is just too big, such as tree trunks, the property owner may need to hire a contractor to do the removal. Before hiring anyone, though, check with their insurance company to find out if they're covered for this type of work.

The state and federal government does not endorse any contractor. Therefore, any contractor saying they're working for the state or feds are most likely lying, even if they have documents stating they work for the state or federal government.

According to Arkansas Attorney General Mark Pryor, a contractor can only charge 10 percent more than they paid for materials, and only 10 percent more than they usually charge for the same labor under normal conditions.

If any more is charged, the contractor could be price gouging. This should be reported to the Attorney General's Office at 1-800-482-8982. It wouldn't be a bad idea to turn the contractor in to local law enforcement officials, or emergency manager.

For those who had large animals, such as horses or cows, die because of the disaster, there are ways the disposal of the carcass must be handled.

ADEM states the animals should be buried two to four feet deep with a minimum of two feet of dirt covering the remains.

The carcasses should be buried at least 100 yards from all wells and streams to prevent water contamination.

The Arkansas Livestock and Poultry Commission recommends placing no more than two or three animals in one burial location.

For more information on disposing of animal carcasses, contact the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality at 1-501-562-6986.