Here are some additional steps Pinto suggests people consider in the event of storm:

Depending on the type of storm and the type of damage, people "have to be aware that there are going to be hazardous materials, most likely in the storm-damaged areas." After both Hurricane Katrina and Superstorm Sandy, it was pretty clear that the flood waters—even the ocean flood waters—carried a large number of hazardous materials, bacteria and viruses, oils, pesticides, and heavy metals that were contaminated.
Pay attention to government restrictions and obey them. Start cleaning up as soon as emergency officials issue authorization to move back into the community. Sooner is better.
Depending on the damage, people should seek professional help if they're unsure of what hazardous materials they may be exposed to. It's extremely important to use protective equipment when cleaning up: "boots, long pants, gloves that come up over the wrists, respiratory protection, eye protection—all of that is critical," Pinto says.

Avoid storing chemicals that are very reactive or self-combustible in the home. They could easily start a fire. Any kind of fuel for barbecue grills or camp stoves, law mowers or snow blowers—such as propane gas, gasoline, kerosene or diesel fuel—is best stored in a garage, not in the house.
Once a year, people should think about spring cleaning. If you find anything that's been under the sink, in the basement or in the garage for more than a year and hasn't been used, "dispose of it properly and replace it," Pinto says. Use up chemicals, but if you don't, they're just a danger to keep around.
Businesses usually have compressed gas tanks, often chained to walls, which are likely to be moved by the flood waters and scattered. This could cause safety problems, because the tanks may leak. Large containers of nitrogen that are leaking can disperse in the air and could result in suffocation of maintenance personnel or anyone cleaning up. Pinto strongly suggests that businesses have pre-disaster arrangements with a professional restoration company, use efficient breathing apparatus and have clean-up done by professionals.

Special Reports /

6 tips for safely cleaning up household hazardous waste after a storm