There was a segment on NPR's Morning Edition today about recovering information from one's computer and the companies that specialize in this service. The report is probably on their website by now. The report also stressed keeping the hard disk, etc. damp after it had been water-logged. BJH

Barbara J Hickman, Staff Archeologist
Archeological Studies Program
Environmental Affairs Division, TxDOT
Telephone: 512.416.2637
Fax: 512.416.2643

>>> [log in to unmask] 08 September, 2005 4:12 PM >>>
My brother and sister-in-law operate a disaster recovery service for  
tape (video, audio, data). They have already begun processing  
material damaged by Katrina. For anyone involved in recovery after  
Katrina he advised the following:

1. Don't panic tape is amost always recoverable.
2. Do not dry/freeze dry contaminated tape. The result can be a  
chemical/mineral crust that is virtually impossible to remove. And  
while paper records can be read through stains, tape cannot.
3. While washing or rinsing off contamination is not a bad idea, the  
chlorine in drinking water will damage tape. Distilled water is  
preferred.
4. wet tapes should be kept "cool" to retard further damage.

As this is a moderated list I did not feel it was appropriate to post  
contact information for their company. However I would be glad to if  
the moderator will allow it. Otherwise contact me off list. For what  
it is worth I get nothing.

James H. Brothers IV