Whether you live in areas affected by the recent hurricanes or not, its beneficial to be aware of the steps to take after your home has been flooded. Here are some important notes to consider of what steps you should take directly after a flood in your home.
Any food and drink that could have been contaminated with flood water should be thrown away. If you are not sure that it has, be on the safe side and don’t consume it.
You don’t know what awaits you as you first enter your home, so be very cautious as you don’t know what you’re going to find. The houses structure could be in a compromised state. Look for any signs that could indicate a potential floor or ceiling collapse.
Wearing appropriate clothing is important, such as robust footwear and the right kind of breathing mask.
A house isn’t only filled up with water in a flood, but also with all kinds of muck and silt. This is a danger to your health, due to the bacteria and sewage that if usually contains. If possible, attempt to get as much as you can out of the home. Its not wise to try to clean up things like mattresses etc. as these will have bacteria in them. It is best to throw them out.
When a home floods, very often the homes electrical system can be damaged. While its often the case that the whole neighborhood has no power, its still a good idea to turn off the electricity to your own house, flood water may of damaged electrical circuits. Be careful though, if you have to stand in water so as to get to the circuit breaker, get the advise of a professional electrician beforehand.
It might seem strange, but were you aware that there is a huge risk of fire after a flood? This is because of electrical appliances and furnaces being under water. Another huge factor is gas leaks as well as chemical spills.
This is just some of the preliminary first steps to take after a flood in your home.
