Stay Safe After A Flood

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

What to do After a Flood

A flood within your home in Charlotte, NC, can be the result of external events such as extreme weather, or it can be the result of internal issues like plumbing failures. During storms, floodwater can cause significant damage to your property, but the main priority is to get your family and pets to safety in flooding scenarios. Once the flood has passed, you can return to your home and assess the damage and begin the cleanup process.

Your house and belongings flooding can be overwhelming, but there are steps you can take to ensure your belongings and property stay safe after a flood. 

Turn off the Electricity 

After you are certain that the flooding in your home has stopped, turn off all sources of electricity in your home. Locate your fuse box before an emergency so that you are prepared to turn off the electricity when it is necessary. Do not walk through the water in your home to get to the fuse box. If the power is unable to be turned off without stepping in water, wait and contact a professional. 

Evacuate the Premises 

If your house has standing water throughout, evacuate and find a safe, dry spot outside of your home. It may be as close as the home of a neighbor or friend. Make sure that everyone is accounted for and unhurt. In the case of a natural disaster, locate a temporary shelter. Help can be found by asking local authorities if needed. 

Avoid Contact With Standing Water

Floodwater can contain different types of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, chemicals, and debris. Wear rubber boots and gloves if needed but otherwise avoid entering the contaminated water. If contact does occur, clean any areas of contact immediately with soap and water. Don’t allow the water to sit, as bacteria can multiply, and the structural integrity of furniture and home can begin to break down following a flood. 

Document Everything

Be sure to contact your insurer or landlord after a flood on your property. These agencies can sometimes assist with the costs of flood damage and recovering lost items in the flood. Document all of your personal belongings to show your insurer.

Flood water should be extracted as soon as possible to lessen water damage to your home. If you need assistance with your home after a flood, SERVPRO of South Mecklenburg County at (704) 840-6112.

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