Residents should not wait for FEMA Individual Assistance to clean flooding debris

SANTA FE – The state, local and county governments are providing resources for residents cleaning up after the flooding in Chaves County. Residents can separate their debris and have it picked up at their curb or drop off debris at temporary debris staging sites.

"The impacts from this flooding have been devastating to this community, but the state will be with them to support every step of their recovery," saidDHSEM State Director Ali Rye. "We're working with local and county officials to make sure residents have options that are easy to navigate."

Those who would like their debris to be picked up curbside are asked to sort their debris into five categories:

Electronics (such as televisions, computers, phones).
Large appliances (such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, stoves or dishwashers. Be sure to seal or secure the doors so they are not accessible).
Vegetative debris (such as tree branches, leaves or plants).
Construction debris (such as drywall, lumber, carpet or furniture).
Household garbage, discarded food, paper or packaging.

Curbside debris must be free of overhead obstructions, maintain an 8' clear radius surrounding the debris, and should not obstruct right of ways.

The Roswell Municipal Landfill will be open to the public for expanded weekend hours Saturday, Oct. 26, from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Sunday, Oct. 27, from 6 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The City of Roswell will be waiving landfill fees associated with flood-related debris, until further notice.

Safe and timely cleanup is necessary for the health and safety of those living in a flood impacted home. Do not wait for FEMA Individual Assistance to become available before removing flood debris from your home. Residents are encouraged to photograph damage before mucking and gutting begins and should save receipts for any costs related to the flooding. Guidance on how to safely remove debris can be found on DHSEM's website.