What to Do If Your House Floods This Hurricane Season

Our beautiful state of Florida is unfortunately affected by hurricane season in the later months of summer. This can mean both powerful rainstorms and many threats to your household. Dangerous aftermaths can result from a flood in your house, which could lead to sickness and possible death. A plethora of events can occur: mold can begin to grow, your floorboards may begin to rot, your walls can become discolored or stained, and your electricity can become dangerous. You need to be prepared for what comes after a flood, and we are here to help you.

What Can Happen After a Flood?

After a flood, your family, household, or building can suffer many damagers. If those damages are not treated immediately, many other damages to your structure or even your own safety can occur. The following issues can occur from a flood alone:

• Mold can grow in between your walls, under your rug, carpet, or wooden floor.
• The wood in your structure can begin to rot, making the floor unsafe.
• Discoloration or blemishes can damage your walls.

The following issues can occur if the above issues are not treated immediately:

• You and your family can suffer from respiratory problems and allergic reactions from the mold in your house.
• If your floor has become rotted, it can become destroyed under your step, which could become dangerous to your house, you, and your family.

What to Do After Flooding

After the event of a flooding, it is important to take precautions to ensure the safety of you and those around you. The following steps should be taken after a flood:

• Do not enter your home until a professional has looked at the structure stability and electrical wiring.
• Once inside, photograph flooded areas and damaged property for your insurance claim.
• Wear protective gear while cleaning.
• Once your electricity is safe to use, begin utilizing ventilator fans and dehumidifiers to air out the moist flood aftermath.
• Remove water damaged items from your home and begin restoration. This is best done with the help of a professional.

What Not to Do After Flooding

Remember that while water can be a calm and soothing element, it can also become very dangerous, especially in the event of a flood. In the aftermath of a flood, take the steps necessary to keep you and your family safe. Here are a few safety tips to ensure the correct and safe steps are taken for you and your family:

• Do not wade through flood waters. While it may look efficient in movies and commercials, swimming in flood water is one of the most dangerous things you can do after a flood. Chemicals can collect in the water, and bacteria can cause infection.
• Do not use electricity after a flood. You could risk dangerous electrocution or damaged wiring which could lead to fire. Always call a professional in the event of a flood to look at your electric system.
• Be careful of animals in a flood. Snakes can bite and can be poisonous; stray animals could be scared of the flood and not want human attention, and insects that could be carrying diseases are attracted to stagnant water.
• Always wear protective clothing. Gloves, hard hats, and protective clothing can protect you from chemicals, animals, and debris. A mask is also beneficial to avoid future respiratory problems.

Frequently Asked Questions