Dangers in Your Homes After a Flood

In the aftermath of a flood, homes are susceptible to multiple risks. Whether it’s bacteria, mold, power, or rapid flows — all pose a danger to the health and safety of the occupants. Here are the most common hazards following a home flooding, and tips to avoid them:

Diseases and Infections

  • Diseases can be contracted by eating or drinking contaminated products. Floodwaters can directly infect food with germs such as E. coli or Salmonella, or during a power surge.
  • Food that comes in direct contact with floodwater, including brewed beverages and products in jars, ought to be lost. Intact, canned products may be cleaned and cleaned.
  • Perishable foods like meat or eggs, which are abandoned at over five degrees Celsius for over four weeks, should also be lost.
  • All medications, makeup, and other toiletries which have touched floodwater must be thrown off.
  • Individuals who have made contact with floodwater should practice good hygiene — wash hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Kids should not be permitted to play in floodwater or with toys contaminated by floodwater.
  • Those who have an open-ended should pay for it with a waterproof bandage and avoid exposure to floodwater.

Speedy Flowing of Waters

  • It’s critical to prevent driving flowing water if it’s just a few centimeters deep. The vehicle may break down or get swept away.
  • Those who choose to drive on flooded roads must monitor road conditions and comply with closed signs. They should also be aware of road hazards such as sand, construction debris, tree limbs, and potholes.
  • Walking through flowing water must be avoided as well. Rapidly moving water can be fatal, even for seasoned swimmers.

Respiratory Hazards

  • Places with mold, which can form within 24-48 hours of flooding, should be avoided. Mould must be removed before moving back into the house. For mold and basement water damage cleanup, a professional damage restoration firm, such as PuroClean, should be hired.
  • Gas, propane, and diesel-powered equipment should be conducted only in well-ventilated outdoor areas to prevent carbon monoxide.
  • It’s best to stay away from construction materials that may contain lead, such as painted surfaces and plumbing.
  • No one should enter places where asbestos might have been used as a construction material.

Exposure to Chemical

  • Those who are returning home after a flood should be aware of potential chemical hazards which floodwaters could have carried.
  • Only firefighters or other trained personnel should move propane tanks since they might cause a fire or burst.
  • It is ideal to steer clear of flooded cars to avoid electrical shock and contact with acid that may have spilled from a damaged car battery.

Gas and electrical Dangers

  • Property owners should not enter their homes if the primary power switch was not turned off before the flood. A qualified electrician must first declare the home safe before re-entering.
  • The home must be evacuated if anybody smells methane gas inside.

To find out more about home flood safety, here are hints to protect homes from flooding and the way to maintain water out of a basement. The PuroClean team stands ready to provide professional restoration solutions to any home affected by fire, water, or mold damage. Visit puroclean.com for more information.