My Own Restoration - Safety precautions for re-entering the premises after flooding

My Own Restoration: What are the safety precautions for re-entering a property after flooding has occurred?

Flood Damage

Flooding occurs when water levels rise both in quantity and speed beyond the capacity of the existing drainage system. The water levels can increase due to heavy precipitation, weather calamities, and rapidly melting snow. The inability of the soil to soak up the water as fast as it falls also contributes to flooding.

The rising water enters fields to destroy standing crops and properties, harming life and building safety.

The extent of water damage is colossal and beyond the capability of a property owner to contain and remediate independently. Therefore, hiring professional flood restoration services like My Own Restoration is recommended to combat the colossal task of preventing water damage and remediating it.

Safety precautions for re-entering the home after flooding

Re-entering the home after flooding can be a nightmarish experience, and one must exercise maximum caution. However, here are a few things to remember when one can access the house after flood waters have receded and the authorities have deemed it safe to enter:

It would be best to re-enter the home during the daytime since it would be perilous to turn on the lights in a house flooded with water due to the risk of electrocution.
If there is a need to turn on the lights, it is advisable to use battery-operated flashlights and torches. Avoid using candles and gas lanterns which have a live flame and could cause a gas explosion.
Gas and electrical utilities would need to be turned off by an expert technician to avoid any mishaps. Furthermore, if the house smells of gas, open all doors and windows to circulate the air on the premises, and the concerned authorities must be notified immediately. It is also wise to step out of the house until proper action has taken place to address the gas leak, as even a spark can cause an explosion.
The flood waters are highly contaminated with organic debris, animal carcasses, and sewage material. Therefore, wear protective clothing and minimize contact with the flood waters.
Throw away all the perishable food which may have come in contact with the flood water or is of a questionable texture and appearance and foul smelling.
A home closed off for days after flooding will have mold and mildew formation, which must be cleaned and sanitized immediately. Water must be removed as fast as possible to dry out the house and contain further growth of mold and fungus. Increasing the air circulation in the property is critical to managing the humidity levels and removing all signs of dampness.
The flood waters might have contaminated the drinking water supply by entering the municipal water lines. Therefore, it is safer to procure bottled water until the water supply is deemed fit for human consumption.
An electrician must check all electrical appliances and gadgets for any loose wires or breaks in the circuits to avoid electrical failure when plugging them on. The devices might also become clogged with dirt and debris in the flood waters and require thorough cleaning and disinfecting.
While inspecting and repairing the house's external features, it is best to drain the water from them first to avoid it spilling down and draining into the property. Gutters, drains, and spouts must be carefully inspected for debris and water, which should be discharged away from the house.
Engage well-qualified flood restoration services like My Own Restoration in Fairhaven, Tucson, AZ, and nearby areas to ensure the perfect remedial approach to the problem. They have all the correct equipment, like dehumidifiers, vacuum pumps, fans, infrared cameras, and other tools required to manage the water removal and balance the humidity levels in the house.