Emergency ABC - Five Important Things to Know before Cleaning Up after a Flood

Five Important Things to Know before Cleaning Up after a Flood

With one of the worst hurricane seasons on record, the importance of knowing how to act in case of an emergency has never been so obvious or great. Nearly every area in the United States is vulnerable to flood or flash flood damage. Learning what to do in case of a flood, then, is one of the most important disaster preparedness topics you can learn about. Here are five important things everyone should know before cleaning up after the damage left by a flood.

1. If you or someone you know has been exposed to flood waters, seek medical attention immediately. Floodwater is some of the most contaminated water your body could ever come in contact with. Floodwater contamination can lead to serious infection. If you suspect you or anyone else has drunk floodwater, seek medical care at your local hospital or clinic as soon as possible.

2.

When the rain stops, do not assume the danger has passed. Just because the water has stopped falling, and the floodwaters seem to be receding, do not assume that it is safe to go home and begin the process of floodwater clean up.

If you have a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) weather radio, continue to listen for weather updates. If you have access to local radio or commercial television stations, continue to watch for information on the weather. Local broadcasts will inform you of the threat of oncoming storms, or floodwater-related dangers in your local area. Many times, floodwater damage creates many hazards that requires professional clean up before the area is opened up again to local area residents.

3. You should stay out of any structure or building that still has floodwaters surrounding it. Never underestimate the structural damage caused by floodwaters. Floodwaters can weaken a structure's foundation in relatively short periods of time, especially in older structures. Floodwaters can cause sinking, cracks in the floorboards, even causing a house to collapse.

Even if floodwaters are not obviously present, you should avoid entering any building until local officials have declared it safe to enter. Floodwater often causes damage that is not obvious upon a casual inspection. An apparently sound structure may have suffered gas leaks, electrical damage, or water line damage.

4. Examine flood-damaged buildings with great caution. Once local officials have deemed the area safe, the real work begins. Begin by inspecting the house carefully. Remember that flood damage can weaken structures considerably, so step carefully. Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes that do not leave your feet exposed. One of the most common personal injuries during the clean up process is cuts to the feet.

Never smoke inside the building. Bring battery-operated flashlights or lanterns to examine the building. This prevents the danger of fire hazards in case of gas leaks. Study the floors, walls, doors, staircases, and windows with great care to ensure the house is not in danger of collapsing. Use your flashlight to inspect the foundation for cracks or other signs of damage.

Locate damage to the building's gas, electrical, and sewage system. After you've examined the structural integrity of the building, check for damage to the utility systems. Check for gas leaks. If you have a gas leak, you might hear a small hissing noise and smell the gas in the air. If you suspect a gas leak, turn off the main valve immediately and call the gas company.

Examine the building's electrical system. You will also want to examine any damage done to your home's electrical system. Any broken, frayed, or loose wires are areas for concern. If you notice any sparks or smell anything burning, turn off the electricity immediately at the circuit breaker or fuse box.

You will also want to examine the building's sewage system. Call a plumber and avoid using the toilet if you suspect damage has been done to the sewage lines. If you suspect water pipes have also been damaged, call your water company and avoid drinking water from the tap.

5. Prepare for insurance claims. Take pictures of all the damage with your camera before beginning the clean up process. These will come in handy as you prepare to file insurance claims.

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