Be Aware of Flood Dangers

Even light flooding inside a home can be dangerous. When water levels reach electrical components, outlets, or the electric box, you risk being shocked or electrocuted if you enter the flooded areas. Turn off the main power supply as soon as possible, only if it’s safe to do so. Switching off the electricity with wet hands or while standing in water is extremely dangerous. According to the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI), some 600 people annually die from slips and falls on hard surface flooring, especially when wet. So be careful when maneuvering around a flooded area.

There are standard procedures you may take as soon as water damage is discovered. In fact, they should be initiated before a restoration contractor arrives. These procedures can minimize damage and reduce restoration complication and cost considerably.

What To Do:

1. Ensure that a plumber or contractor has been called to eliminate the water source and make necessary repairs as required.
2. Ensure that HVAC equipment, if operating, is set at moderate temperatures (65-75°F/18-24°C). Do not turn on the heating and air conditioning system if it was flooded, or it might serve to spread contamination.
3. Switch the HVAC blower into the “continuous on” position.
4. Turn on ceiling fans or any other air handling equipment available within the home.
5. Activate all exhaust fans (kitchens, bathrooms, etc.), particularly if moisture is already condensing on interior windows or metal surfaces.
6. Open all draperies, venetian blinds or mini-blinds to allow the sun to shine in.
7. Weather permitting (temperature of 65-85°F/18-29°C and humidity below 50%), open windows and doors as possible for ventilation of moisture.
8. If safe to do so, turn off circuit breakers providing electricity to affected areas; unplug and remove any small electrical devices currently located in wet rooms.
9. Remove small furnishings from carpet, to prevent rust or stains and speed restoration.
10. Place aluminum foil under legs of wood furniture, especially antiques, to prevent stains.
11. Hang draperies and pin up furniture skirts to avoid contact with wet floors which prevents water marks.
12. Remove books, shoes, paper goods, fabrics, potted plants, or other items that may stain floor coverings (check especially under beds and in closets for these items).
13. Remove and secure breakables, moisture-sensitive, or high-value items.
14. Wash your hands thoroughly after handling wet items.

What NOT To Do:

1. Do not use any type of home vacuum, even shop vacs, since electrical shock may occur, as well as potential damage to the equipment.
2. Do not place newspaper in the traffic areas, since the ink transfers easily.
3. Do not walk on wet carpet any more than necessary to minimize damage.

In a sewage loss, specifically do not:

• Handle directly contaminated items.
• Consume foods or use personal hygiene items that were left out in contaminated areas.
• Turn on fans to circulate air or use any vacuum equipment.
• Stay in the property if you: (1) Have respiratory problems including allergies and asthma; (2) are under age 2 or over age 60, or pregnant; (3) have a weak immune system (ill, medication, recent surgery).