Flood Recovery Tips: What to do When Your House Floods

A flood in your home can be caused by something as simple as faulty plumbing like a burst pipe but in some cases, it might down to reasons beyond your control. The most devastating ones of course caused by natural disasters like very heavy rains. Well, dealing with flood water damage isn’t easy but we have compiled a few tips to guide you towards recovery. 

Electrical Safety First!

The first and the most important precaution you should take in any flooded house is to ensure all electrical sources are off regardless of how minor the water leak looks. The reasons are obvious. Water is a very good conductor of electricity thus any contact will present an electrocution risk to anyone who comes in contact with the water.  Just to be on the safe side, switch off the power from the main sources before you can move on to the removed water. If you don’t know how to do this then find a licensed electrician who will disconnect the house from the grid. 

Beware of Risky Damage Caused by the Flood

You want to start handling the situation at hand but don’t be in haste. If the cause of the water damage is something like rain then wait for it to settle down first before dealing with the water damage. You don’t want to go into a large pool of water as this might be a potential health and safety risk as you handle the damages. 

External flood will normally be accompanied by secondary damage that might also be a health or safety risk in the aftermath.  For example, there might be loose structures around which can be quite dangerous as you try to navigate around. In this regard, don’t get comfortable as you move around. Be very cautious with water damage caused by an extensive internal or external flood. If you are in such a scenario then you will need water damage restoration services. In fact, we recommend that you first assess the extent of the damage caused. If you suspect extensive damage after a flood, it is recommended that you seek the services of experts who can help you recover from the flood.  

Wear Protective Gear When Drying Out Flood Water

Flood water may look clear but it may be contaminated. Some of the common contaminants you should avoid are sewage, mold damage and the chemicals that you had in the house. They are dangerous in that they might cause life-threatening diseases to add salt to the injury.  You can protect yourself using the right equipment and gear when clearing the water. We recommend that you use waterproof gloves, hip- or waist-high waterproof boots and respiratory masks when handling the floodwater.  

Ask for Help!

If the flood in your home is quite extensive then you will need help recovering. You can seek help from water damage restoration experts who will help you get back to your feet faster. Also, don’t forget to notify the insurer before attempting any repairs you might want to undertake.  Take pictures and videos before starting the process of restoring your house after a flood. Digital formats are a nice way to document the damage for your insurer and increase the chances of coverage.