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How Should You Handle a Storm Damage Cleanup | Services Pros

How Should You Handle a Storm Damage Cleanup

Cleaning up flooding and storm damage is not easy – there is a lot of rubbish to throw and a lot of repairs to be made. Not only you should possess home improvement skills but you should also have some basic knowledge of what is expected to happen at the damaged property and the safety measures to practice. The following are 3 tips on how to handle a storm damage cleanup.

How Should To Handle a Storm Damage Cleanup

1. Common Sense You Should Know Prior to Cleanup
First, you must understand that you will come across a lot of hazards when you enter into your flooded property. When wading in the floodwater, it is common to see rats, snakes and other insects. When in the property, pay attention to gas smell, damaged power lines, cracks on foundation, shifted stairs, and collapsing walls.

It is important to always turn off the water to prevent the water level from increasing which can lead to drowning. The main power line should also be turned off to avoid electrocution. If the ceilings are wet, you should not walk on the floor above it. It is also advised not to turn on lights and fans on the wet ceilings.

2. The First Things to Do During a Cleanup
The first thing you should do during the cleanup is to check the running water and make sure it is safe to drink. When you work halfway, you are sure to think of boiling some water for quenching your thirst. To check whether your toilet is clogged, flush it and see if the water goes down smoothly. While walking through the house, you should check for cabinets and structures that are not stable and prone to fall over. All debris and water trapped in the walls should be removed. When cleaning up the place, you should open all the doors and windows to allow the air to circulate.

The standing water in the basement should be drained slowly to prevent the foundation from collapsing. Work that requires a lot of work like structural work should be handled by the professional. This also applies to electrical work as you can risk getting yourself electrocuted while refitting the electric system. You can rent a dumpster where you can throw all the moldy furniture and other objects that are damaged by the flood. In addition, don’t leave any pool of standing water which can create a breeding ground for mosquito.

3. Implementing the Water Damage Cleanup and Recovery
When you begin work, you must wear protective clothing, and boots to protect yourself. You need to prepare antibacterial soap for washing your hands after you come in contact with contaminated items. All permeable materials, drywall, ceilings, insulation, food and beverage that are exposed to the floodwater should be thrown away. Paper items like books, documents and photographs can be dried under the sun. If you want to claim insurance, be sure to make a list and take photo of all the damage items.