5 Pitfalls to Avoid Following a Flood

8/10/2021 (Permalink)

5 Pitfalls to Avoid Following a Flood

If a storm strikes in Chuluota, FL, your home may become susceptible to damage caused by floodwater. Should you experience such a calamity, keeping in mind the below precautions will help maximize a safe and cost-effective return to normalcy.

1. Prevent Electric Shock
Water conducts electricity, making wading through flooded houses particularly perilous. Reduce exposure to electrified water by wearing knee-high rubber boots. Always avoid removing cords or plugs with wet hands and only do so by pulling on the plug, not the cord. Additionally, never flip a circuit breaker before your place has been certified dry.

2. Look Out for Mold and Mildew
If flooding necessitates vacating your home, you may uncover a nasty surprise upon your return. Mold can begin growing within a day or two following a flood, especially when there is humidity. Consider wearing a respirator mask until you have had your house professionally checked for mold.

3. Beware of Contamination
Flood water relentlessly knocks over anything in its path and can therefore easily become compromised. Avoid touching any water in a flooded home that you are not certain is free from raw sewage or other hazardous substances.

4. Never Jump the Gun on Buying Furniture
Purchasing a new sofa or bed may feel like a step toward normalcy, but acquiring new items too soon may become costly. You never want to pay for storage while still managing the expense of cleaning up water damage.

5. Don’t Wait to Contact Your Insurance
Immediately check with your home insurance carrier regarding the proper steps toward assessing flood damage. The faster you do so, the sooner you will be able to employ a flood restoration service that can get your residence looking “Like it never even happened.”
Uncontrollable flood water can wreak havoc, but heeding the above warnings will help assure your safety, limit expenses, and speed up the restoration process.