What to Watch Out for After a Typhoon? Guide to Post-Disaster Cleanup and Hygiene

The passing of a typhoon does not mean the danger is over. Returning home inspections, disinfecting standing water, food safety, and mosquito/disease prevention are equally important after a typhoon.

The Typhoon Has Passed, but the Danger May Not Be Over

Risks may still exist after a typhoon:

• "Return Winds": Wind direction reverses after the typhoon center passes, and wind strength may increase again
• Walls and roofs softened by water may collapse at any time
• Fallen utility poles and flooded electrical boxes pose risks of electric leakage
• Landslides and mudflows may still occur in mountainous areas 1-2 days after the rain

Checklist for Returning Home

• Inspect the exterior first: Check roofs and walls for cracks or tilting. Do not enter if abnormalities are found.
• Cut power and inspect upon entry: Check if electrical boxes and sockets have taken on water. Do not restore power directly if wet; have an electrician inspect them.
• Check for gas leaks: If you smell gas, open windows immediately and close the valve. Do not turn on lights or make phone calls.
• Check water quality: If tap water is cloudy, let it run first. Drinking water must be boiled.

Food Safety

• Discard all food soaked by floodwaters (including items with damaged sealed packaging).
• If power has been out for more than 4 hours, it is not recommended to consume meat and dairy products from the refrigerator.
• Avoid raw or cold foods after the disaster. Disinfect tableware with boiling water.

Hygiene and Disease Prevention

Standing water brought by typhoons is a breeding ground for mosquitoes and intestinal infectious diseases:

• Promptly clear containers holding standing water around your home (flower pot trays, tires, buckets).
• Wash skin that has come into contact with floodwater using clean water and soap. Disinfect wounds promptly.
• Seek medical attention immediately if fever, diarrhea, or skin redness/swelling occurs after wading through sewage.
• Do not consume dead poultry or livestock; report them to the community for unified disposal.

Insurance Claims and Assistance

Take photos as evidence immediately if your house or vehicle is damaged, and report to your insurance company within 48 hours. In case of severe disaster, call local emergency hotlines or contact your community to apply for disaster relief.