Flood
Clean Up Tips
While
it is suggested that victims of flood use heat to dry closed
building interiors, they should be aware that mildew and expanded
moisture damage may result. Unfortunately this really cannot
be avoided. Additional damage can be minimized by circulating
air. Victims of floods or individuals with water damage should
not assume an affected area is dry without the use of moisture
meters. Bacterial or microbial growth can start very quickly
if the affected area is not completely dried and cleaned.
Multilevel
flooded homes can be drained using gravity and drainage pipes
after the water line into the house has been shut off.
Turn off ceiling fixtures if ceiling is wet, and keep out
of rooms where ceilings are sagging from retained water. While
attempting to clean up water damage do not enter rooms where
ceilings are sagging from retained water. If necessary punch
holes in sagging ceilings to allow water to drain.
Treat
all water impacted surfaces and furnishings as toxic, until
they are properly decontaminated. Attempt to remove as much
excess water as possible by mopping and blotting. Use fans
to circulate air. Pull up saturated rugs and carpets. Remove
any floor rugs, lift draperies, pin up furniture skirts, in
any area that was affected. Air out suitcases and luggage
to dry. This is best done by leaving suitcases open in the
sun.
Circulate
as much air as possible by opening or removing furniture drawers,
opening closet doors, this will enhance the drying. Remove
and prop up wet upholstery cushions. Do not operate TVs, vacuums
or other appliances while standing on wet carpet or floors
electrocution or serious injury may result.
If
time is an issue freeze valuable books and documents to retard
mildew growth until drying can be performed. Damp books should
be removed from the shelves and spread out to dry. Wipe water
from wood furniture after removing of lamps and tabletop items.
Computer
equipment should be removed to a dry environment, computer
cases should be removed and computers dried out using pressurized
air. Circuit breakers that have been submerged should be replaced.
Any circuit breaker removed after being submerged must be
destroyed because it may not operate safely.
The
main electrical panel in homes should be cleaned, dried, and
tested to ensure the integrity of the insulation. Do not use
any appliance, heating, pressure, or sewage system that has
been subjected to flood water until the electrical components
of the appliance or system have been thoroughly cleaned, dried,
and inspected by a qualified electrician.
Replace
heating equipment that have been submerged such as electrical
furnaces and hot water tanks. All receptacles and switches
that have been submerged in flood water should be replaced.
Of
course an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Not
all flooding is the result of natural disasters some home
flooding occurs as the result of faulty plumbing. Frequently
check under sinks for moisture or small leaks. Leaks under
sinks should be repaired quickly to avoid additional damage
to cabinets or floors. Make sure overflow holes on tubs and
vanities are clear and open to prevent water damage.
During
the clean up if all else fails contact a Certified Water Damage
Firm, there are a number of firms that specialize in water
damage reparation.
Keep
in mind that water damage occurs rapidly and sometimes the
difference between restoration and replacement can be the
quick action of a professional. There are also specialists
who specifically focus on restoration and will know how to
properly dry, clean and care for precious items like oil paintings.
Do not throw away desirable items, before determining whether
a specialist can complete restoration.
About
the Author
Francesca Black has worked in the emergency services field
for more than 10 years. More information available at Prepare
for Emergency http://www.prepare-for-emergency.com
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