Post-Disaster Salvage and Recovery

DEM Blogger

January 14, 2016

Despite all our preparations, disasters still happen. Whether it’s a flood or a fire, the elements can damage our most treasured possessions – but it’s often possible to salvage a good amount of personal property if it isn’t completely destroyed or contaminated by hazardous substances.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Smithsonian Institution co-sponsor the Heritage Emergency National Task Force, a coalition of 42 national organizations and federal agencies focused on preserving cultural heritage artifacts in the wake of disasters. The task force has consulted professional conservators to produce guidelines for salvaging personal property after a flood or a fire:

• After the Flood: Advice for Salvaging Damaged Family Treasures
• After the Fire: Advice for Salvaging Damaged Family Treasures