Flooding occurs when rising water levels exceed the boundaries of natural bodies of water, such as streams and rivers, and spreads over the earth and contaminates everything in the path. Soil microorganisms, rotting insects, animal droppings, oils and fluids from highways and pesticides, fertilizers, and other substances from fields and gardens can be a source of pollution for water.
Cleaning your house is not easy enough, but cleaning your home after flooding is more complicated. Floods are a devastating catastrophe in and of itself, but they can bring about even more destruction if it is not dealt with. Flood clean-up involves more than just letting things dry in the sunlight.
Preparing for A Flood Clean-Up?
When your home is affected by flooding, you might have to deal with costly repairs, filthy conditions, and a lengthy clean-up. Cleaning the mess after a flood is critical for your health, the value of your possessions, and structural integrity. The following advice can aid you in planning to be safe in the event of and clean up after any form of flooding.
1. Property Structure
Stay away from the house when it’s severely damaged and looks unsafe, for example, cracks to the roof, or cracks in the walls, until a building inspector or engineer has inspected it. Be cautious because damage could be hidden. If you’re unsure, don’t go. Look over the ceilings, walls, and flooring using the aid of a flashlight.
Ceilings and floors that are sagging could indicate foundation issues, and sagging ceilings may suggest that the roof is flooding and, therefore, get out of the structure immediately. For water remediation and restoration services, you can get in touch with this water damage restoration firm and ask about the services that they offer.
2. Electrical Safety
A certified electrician or electrician must check every electrical wiring in a structure entirely submerged by floodwaters before being put back in service. Any stray wires should be considered “live” and pose an immediate risk. Broken power lines, damaged electrical equipment, and electric tools in standing water can cause fatalities if not dealt with promptly.
3. Gas
Before you use your gas system, check your meter and regulator. The floodwaters could have moved your home’s foundation, put more pressure on gas pipes, damaged gas appliances, or even shifted propane tanks. Do not enter the building if you smell gas or if there is evidence of gas leakage. Switch the main shut-off valve off to shut off the gas.
In general, do not smoke or have naked flames near flood-affected areas. Even if it is not the case that you have a gas supply, loose gas bottles or trapped gasses may be present, and old gas connections or those of your neighbors could be destroyed.
4. Animals
If an animal appears sick after a flood should be seen by a veterinarian immediately. Animal carcasses can be discovered in the clean-up process if you live in a rural or regional location. They should be treated safely, using personal protective equipment. Avoid contact with any deceased animal’s body fluids.
Dispose of dead pets, livestock, and wild animals following local ordinances. Be on the lookout for living animals that don’t normally reside within your premises or workplace Rodents, spiders or snakes. Other animals trapped or seeking refuge within your premises could cause injuries, bites to the body, and disease.
5. PPE and Hygiene
Always use personal protective apparatus (PPE) when cleaning up after a flood. Face masks with N95 or eye protection with holes are the most common examples of protective gear. Long-sleeved pants, sleeves, and gloves are suggested to avoid touching mold. Use rubber boots to protect your feet against shocks and keep your feet dry.
Consult your doctor about your plans to clean up if you suffer from allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions. Use a waterproof dressing to cover all bruises and cuts, then wash them after showering.
