Should Hurricane Laura cause flooding or severe wind damage, it is essential that residents and business owners separate items by category before placing them curbside. “In 2016, when flooding devastated areas of Lafayette Parish, debris was piled up which made it difficult to determine which type of landfill items needed to be transferred to,” Lafayette Consolidated Government Environmental Quality Manager Bess Foret said. “We want to help residents avoid that.”
Because area landfills are permitted to accept certain materials, not all flood debris is taken to the same location. Foret added, “We have to be aware of hazardous items potentially contaminating other waste. In 2016, large, unseparated piles and materials placed in black, plastic bags presented a challenge when crews picked up debris.” Properly separating items allows crews to determine where debris will be taken, and it helps pickup happen in a more timely manner.
SEPARATE INTO THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES (Do not place items in bags)
Electronics
Television, computer, stereo, phone, DVD player
Large Appliances
Refrigerator, washer/dryer, air conditioner, stove, water heater, dishwasher
Hazardous Waste
Oil, battery, pesticide, paint, cleaning supplies, compressed gas
Vegetative Debris
Tree branches, leaves, logs, plants
Construction Debris
Building materials, drywall, lumber, carpet, furniture, plumbing
Household Garbage
Bagged garbage, food, paper, packaging
Debris Placement Guidelines
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Place debris curbside.
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Do not place near or on trees, poles, fire hydrants, meters or utilities.
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Debris should not block roadway.
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Debris placed on the sidewalk will not be picked up.
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Secure appliance doors.
