If your home is flooded and you are struggling with thoughts of the massive cleaning effort up ahead, then take comfort knowing the job will get done and you will be back in your family's home before you know it!
In the meantime, here are some safety tips to help you out when the floodwaters recede:
Safety Tip: Stay Out of the Neighborhood Until Local Officials Stay It's Safe
Storms that cause flooding also bring about downed powerlines, fallen trees, and other life-threatening hazards. Even if the stormwaters have drained away, it does not mean that your property is safe!
Before returning to your home, it is important you wait for the all-clear from local fire and utility authorities. They will inspect the area and ensure there are no electrical issues or broken gas lines.
Safety Tip: Reenter Your Home Cautiously and Safely
Once given clearance to go back home, you need to do so safely and cautiously.
Floods bring many potential hazards into your home, including:
- chemical hazards
- infectious diseases
- industrial waste products
- structural problems
- electric and gas hazards
In addition, sometimes rodents, insects, and even snakes are found in flooded homes. So, it's vital you are cautious and watch for all of these things when re-entering your house.
If you smell gas when you enter your home, then immediately leave and call the local fire department or 9-1-1.
Safety Tip: Cover Yourself Head-to-Toe
Floodwater and the residue it leaves behind can make you very sick. Some things commonly found in floodwater are:
- industrial waste
- material from storm drains
- blackwater from sewers and septic systems
- toxic substances from roadways
Since each of these things can contain harmful viruses, bacteria, and other contaminants, make sure you are covered head to toe before re-entering your property.
Safety Tip: Dry Out Everything ASAP
The minute floodwaters recede, the race starts to get everything dried out before mold takes hold. Every hour that passes increases the probability that your belongings will be damaged by mold.
After it's safe to return and you have outfitted yourself for safety, then your top priority is to dry the inside of your home and everything that got wet in the flood.
In conclusion, if your home has power, then use fans and dehumidifiers. If your home doesn't have power, then you can either use a generator to run fans or open up all of the windows and doors if the outdoor weather allows.
For more information about flood cleaning, contact a local company.
