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Many states do not regulate household hazardous waste, but all states regulate hazardous wastes from business and industry. If the community is providing debris removal for commercial establish- ments, hazardous waste issues can arise and complicate removal programs. Some firms may inadvertently place regulated materials out for community collection programs. For example, motor capacitors and fluorescent light ballasts may contain PCB's that are prohibited from most landfills. Removal workers should be alert for improperly disposed substances. Failure to follow hazardous waste regulations can subject communities to significant fines and penalties. Notes Some communities dry and burn flood debris and materials. Open burning permits and regulatory waivers may be required before igniting burn pits. Communities contemplating the incineration of flood debris should thoroughly investigate state and federal regulations before committing to this course of action. The receding flood waters are likely to reveal a thick layer of mud covering the flood zone. As the mud dries, dust will become a problem. Dust masks and other forms of respiratory protection will be needed to protect clean-up workers. Sewer systems and drains can become clogged with mud left by floodwaters and require cable or water jet cleaning. Restoring sewer and drainage systems can be a very expensive and time consuming process. Vector, vermin and community health issues can be burden- some during initial restoration efforts. This is particularly true during the hot summer months that greatly favor the growth of bacteria and favor the spread and breeding of vermin. Spoiled and questionable food stocks should be placed in metal cans with tight -- - ---fittirrg'tms-p-emting dispNal:Cmned guuds eJ(pused mitoud'--- waters should be destroyed. Animal carcasses should be buried or rendered as soon as possible. The public should be warned of the possible presence of any dangerous or poisonous animals or snakes that may have taken refuge in homes, businesses, or other high locations to avoid the rising waters. Sanitarians and community health officers should be prepared to increase vermin and vector control efforts as the flood waters recede. Expanded mosquito control and rodent extermination programs may be required to deal with extreme situations. The earlier these programs can be initiated, the more effective they will be. Water systems should be restored as soon as possible. If water treatment plants remained above high water levels, this may be a Page9-4