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Smithsonian Experts to Share Tips on Salvaging Family Treasures
Raleigh, NC - - (December 2, 2016) - - When homes are flooded and lives are upended, treasured keepsakes such as photos, artwork, quilts and family heirlooms become more cherished. Although they may have been damaged in the flood, these treasures may be salvageable.
Hurricane Matthew survivors who have set aside these damaged treasures can learn how to bring them back to life at the North Carolina Emergency Management/FEMA Disaster Recovery Center in Robeson County in Lumberton, at the old Kmart, 2750 North Roberts Ave., on Monday. Dec. 5, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Preservation experts from the North Carolina Cultural Resources Emergency Support team will demonstrate, for example, how photographs can be rinsed gently in clean water and air-dried on a plastic screen or paper towel. Photographs can also be hung with plastic clothespins. It is important the image not come in contact with other surfaces as it dries. Many items can be air-dried – preferably indoors. However, high direct heat from hair dryers and irons or prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause irreversible damage. A better choice is to increase airflow with fans, open windows, air conditioners and dehumidifiers.
The experts also will demonstrate how to handle, dry and clean damaged objects and share tips on personal safety, setting priorities and other preservation options.
For more information, email the Heritage Emergency National Task Force at HENTF@si.edu. For additional details about North Carolina’s response to Hurricane Matthew, visit www.ncdps.gov/hurricane-matthew-2016.
Information source: Federal Emergency Management Agency
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