How do I Remove Sand After a Flood?

Sand comes in one often-used form to help stave off flood waters--the sandbag. This simple device is able create a barrier that water is barely able to penetrate. Even though sandbags provide an important function in safety and prevention during a flood, they do present their own dangers after the flood waters have receded. Sandbags hold onto water for an extended period of time and create the perfect environment for bacteria and other harmful pathogens. Additionally, sandbags are known to collect substantial amounts of animal waste. These health hazard realities mean that sandbags need to be disposed of in a specific manner to prevent the spread of disease and infection.

Things You'll Need

• Sandbags
• Landfill
• Gloves
• Boots

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Instructions

• 1

  Put on gloves before handling the sandbags. They may contain dangerous bacteria and harmful pathogens that can cause serious health problems. Gloves will help prevent against contracting diseases and other ailments.

• 2

  Load the sandbags into the back of a pickup truck. This type of truck will be the easiest to load and can carry large number of sandbags. Additionally, the bed is easily cleaned--anything that comes in contact with the sandbags will have to be cleaned to prevent the spread of dangerous bacteria and pathogens.

• 3

  Drive the truck and the sandbags to the nearest landfill. There, the sandbags will be unloaded and disposed of properly.