The Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Reminds Texas Residents To Be Wary Of Asbestos When Returning To Hurricane-Damaged Homes

Texas residents, especially those who reside in Galveston and Houston, should be cautious when returning to their damaged residents as asbestos-containing structural materials, such as insulation and roofing tiles, may have released dangerous levels of asbestos into the air. Exposure to asbestos is linked to the development of mesothelioma, also known as asbestos cancer, a deadly disease that has no cure.

Residences that were built prior to the institution of asbestos-usage regulations in the 1980s more than likely contain asbestos products, including attic insulation, floor and ceiling tiles, roofing tiles, and drywall. When these asbestos-containing materials are damaged by the high winds and flood waters associated with a hurricane, they can release tiny fibers into the air and water, putting families who are returning to their homes at risk of asbestos exposure.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends the following guidelines be followed when returning to a hurricane-damaged home to prevent asbestos exposure, as well as other health hazards:

• Wear a mask that adequately covers the nose and mouth: this will prevent inhalation of errant asbestos fibers and dust.
• Do not drink, wash or use stagnant water or water from damaged wells. The water may contain asbestos fibers, among other health hazards, such as debris or chemicals.
• Do not attempt to remove asbestos-containing materials, such as insulation, from a damaged residence. Hiring a certified asbestos abatement professional will ensure that asbestos removal and disposal will be carried out in a safe manner. If you must tackle a do-it-yourself asbestos abatement project, you must first inform local agencies and be sure that you are adhering to removal and disposal guidelines. Violations of the Clean Air Act may result in large fines or jail time.
• Report any asbestos contamination to EPA.

The Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center strongly encourages residents who live in hurricane-damaged areas of Texas to take all necessary safety precautions when returning home and beginning cleanup.

The Mesothelioma & Asbestos Awareness Center is the web’s foremost resource for information regarding asbestos exposure and mesothelioma and is certified by the Health On the Net Foundation (HON) as a trustworthy source of medical information. Please visit www.maacenter.org for further information.