Fears surrounding asbestos exposure surged recently due to several major natural disasters. From Turkish earthquakes to tornadoes in Australia and hurricanes in the West Indies, fears moved from the events themselves to what happens in the aftermath of these events.

Specifically, the focus shifted from surviving the events to cleaning up and getting life back to normal as quickly and safely as possible.

However, the resurgence of asbestos exposure fears comes directly from emergency responders, military personnel, good Samaritans, families and friends who joined together to pick up the pieces left by these terrible natural disasters.

Natural disasters are indiscriminate beasts. Structures and buildings of all ages, sizes and types are equally vulnerable, and every inch of the planet isn’t immune from Mother Nature.

During a tornado or an earthquake, building materials containing asbestos and other asbestos products come loose and become airborne. When a person inhales these deadly particles, their chances of later developing mesothelioma, lung cancer or other asbestos-related diseases increases dramatically.

Widespread destruction refuels these asbestos-related concerns because many people are inadvertently and unintentionally exposed to these particles while they are trying to help others clean up after a natural disaster.

Clearly, these concerns are valid. Though the use of asbestos in building materials has been banned since the 1970s in most developed countries, asbestos remains in many existing structures. Unfortunately, the complete eradication of asbestos from all structures is improbable.

In addition, the general awareness of the toxic nature of asbestos is virtually universal. Most people understand and recognize how dangerous asbestos is. Another problem with the aftermath of natural disasters is that many people – though fully aware of the danger asbestos poses – do not know that they’re being exposed to asbestos.

Disasters don’t necessarily take the form of massive destruction like a hurricane or tornado. Sometimes even a localized blizzard is enough to cause considerable damage. For example, heavy, wet snow can cause roofs to collapse and trees to fall. Excessive rainfall can cause flooding and roof damage. A small wind storm can down trees and rip shudders off houses.

Essentially, natural disasters are as big as the damage they cause.

If Mother Nature takes her vengeance on your area this year, remember these tips so that you stay safe and healthy:

• Keep your eyes, nose and mouth covered with protective gear if you’re working in a damaged house
• Wear protective gloves and keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth
• Keep children and household pets away from the damaged area
• If you know the house predates the ban on asbestos products, then call in an asbestos removal expert to help clear away any debris

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