DEALING WITH FLOOD DAMAGE

Flood damage can be very devastating especially when the property owner was hardly able to save anything from the whole flooding. It can also be very dangerous given the many repercussions flooding may bring about – to the structure, through the flood waters, as well as other possible safety issues that can occur. Mighty Dry San Diego Flood Restoration Home Page

Electrocution is one of the foremost possible dangerous after-effects of flooding. When flooding has not been addressed ASAP, it can lead to electrical shocks that could be very injurious, or fatal even.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency advises all homeowners to ensure that their main electrical switch is turned off, or have at least a professional turn it off for them if they are unsure about it. About Mighty Dry

“Never assume that a water-damaged house is safe. Going into a building that has been flooded, even after the water is gone, can present a wide variety of hazards that can cause injury, illness or even death. Do not allow children in the home after the flood or while it is being cleaned, inspected or repaired. Electrical hazards- Do not enter a flooded or wet building if the power is on. If any electrical circuits have gotten wet, get the power turned off at the main breaker or fuse box and leave it off until the electrical wiring or equipment has been inspected and repaired by a licensed electrician and approved by your local building inspector.”

Read the whole FEMA Advisory here.

CARPETS SHOULD BE TREATED IMMEDIATELY

If it can still be saved, carpets should also be treated immediately.

FloodSafety.com says it molds can grow within a day or two, hence if a homeowner still wants to salvage his carpeting then he should act on the flooding as soon as possible. Enjoying the San Diego Music Scene

“Clean and dry carpets and rugs as quickly as possible. If sewage-contaminated floodwater covered your carpeting, discard it for health safety reasons. Also discard if the carpet was under water for 24 hours or more. To clean, drape carpets and rugs outdoors and hose them down. Work a disinfecting carpet cleaner into soiled spots with a broom. To discourage mildew and odors, rinse with a solution of 2 tablespoons bleach to 1 gallon water, but don’t use this solution on wool or nylon carpets. Dry the carpet and floor thoroughly before replacing the carpet. Padding is nearly impossible to clean so should be replaced. If the carpet can’t be removed, dry it as quickly as possible using a wet/dry vacuum and dehumidifier. Use a fan to circulate air above the carpet, and if possible, lift the carpet and ventilate with fans underneath.”

Check out the rest of the material here.

MOLDS AND STRUCTURAL DAMAGE

Apart from property damage, risk of injuries and accidents, not treating flood damage at the soonest time can also lead to an even higher form of damage – Molds and structural damage.

The problem with this type of damage is that such has to be dealt with by a professional, because restoring a flood damaged property will always be a serious issue. Categories of Water Damage

Molds for instance can cause illnesses that can be very dangerous for children and the elderly. Allergies and respiratory problems can also be triggered.

As for structural damage, walls, floor boards, and the like can be undermined, hence it is important to immediately address flood damage.