Wait for officials to say it is safe to return, then separate debris by type. Mixed piles slow collection and can put hazardous material, appliances and ordinary garbage on the wrong route.

Use separate piles

Pile	Examples	Keep out
Vegetative debris	Branches, palm fronds, leaves	Plastic bags, lumber, fencing
Construction debris	Drywall, lumber, flooring, damaged fixtures	Chemicals and appliances
White goods	Refrigerators, ranges, washers	Food and loose household waste
Household hazardous waste	Fuel, paint, pool chemicals, pesticides	Every curbside debris pile

Lee County’s disaster guidance says white goods should be set apart from other debris and household chemical waste should go through the county’s designated facility or announced program. Rules can change with each storm, so current county notices outrank any standing checklist.

Safety comes before sorting

Do not enter a building until it is safe.
Avoid floodwater and any area near damaged electrical equipment.
Wear heavy gloves, protective footwear and appropriate eye or respiratory protection.
Do not ask children to help with disaster cleanup.
Stop if a pile may contain asbestos, chemicals, biohazards or unstable structural material.

Ready.gov notes that floodwater can contain sewage, chemicals, broken glass and other hazards. Professional assessment is appropriate when contamination, structural damage or electrical risk is possible.

Sources: Lee County Hurricane & Disaster Debris Management and Ready.gov flood cleanup safety. Lee County and federal safety guidance; retrieved October 21, 2026.

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