Wake Forest, NC – Consider the following list of advice on what to do after a household flood, from the water extraction experts of the Water Damage Team.
“Preparing for and surviving a flood are both important measures to take,†notes David Beavers of the Water Damage Team. “However, you also must be when handling the aftermath the aftermath. To help out people across the country, my team has collected the following 8 tips for handling a household flood.â€
1. Do Not Re-Enter
After leaving the flooded home, do not re-enter until trained emergency workers tell you it is safe. Floodwaters can harm or damage the foundation of your home and make it an unsafe structure to reenter.
2. Take Caution When Eating
Don’t eat or drink anything that has been in contact with flood water. Flood water can and usually does contain unsanitary materials and residue which is not safe to ingest.
3. Remove Water Blockage
If you put sandbags or other blocks around your home to keep water out, remember they may also be holding water in after the flood. If the structure is safe, open windows, doors, and remove blocks to let some water out. Only approach or touch flood water or flooded areas in proper attire, (gloves, mask, boots, water proof jacket, goggles, etc).
4. Flood Insurance
If you had flood insurance, don’t move or touch anything until you’ve contacted them. This is because they must come and observe and assess the damage in it’s original state. Also be sure not to throw out anything that should be checked by the insurance associates as well.
5. Take Pictures
As hard as it is, having thorough documentation of the flood is likely to come in handy. Go throughout the home and take pictures of any and all flood-damaged areas. Check ceilings, walls, and floors diligently to make sure you don’t miss a thing.
6. Watch The Kids
It is imperative not to let children play or touch anything that floodwater has. Even if the floodwater resigns from an area, that area still has infectious bacteria that are dangerous to you and yours. Be sure to sit children down and thoroughly discuss and explain the dangers of floods, floodwater and the aftermath.
7. If You Must Leave
If for any reason you need to leave your flood-damaged home (to go to a hotel, friends, or get something to eat) be sure to secure the house before you leave. Lock all windows and doors, and try to cover up and holes or unstable structure. Although it’s regrettable, looters have been known to target flooded areas for undamaged materials in unsupervised homes.
8. Call A Professional
If you’re unsure about the water damage to your home or have water still residing in the basement or other area, call in some help. Water damage specialists can help you with a multitude of things from assessing damage, to removing water, to cleaning up the mess it leaves. Your insurance may even pay for this work as it’s preventive work that could save them money.
