July 17, 2023

What Not to Do After a Flood in Your Home

When a leak or flood occurs, it’s important to know what steps to take so that you can begin to dry things out and limit the amount of lasting damage to your home. Acting quickly is the best way to lower the chances of mold growth and permanent damage. However, dealing with flood water can also come with danger. Knowing what not to do is equally important to keeping yourself safe. When in doubt, contacting a professional like the water damage specialists at MasterClean can help you take action in a safe and efficient manner. 

Things to Avoid After a Flood

While you may be tempted to rush into a flooded basement to save what you can, it’s crucial to slow down and take steps to ensure your safety before forging ahead. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), floodwaters can be contaminated, and damaged electrical equipment can charge the water. Try to avoid walking through a flooded basement if you aren’t sure it is safe, and make sure that the electricity in your home is shut off before entering the area. Use a flashlight, not a lighter or candle, to take a look around. Gas leaks can sometimes occur in flooded buildings. 

If the flood has resulted from a local emergency, officials will be able to advise you on when you can re-enter the area and if you will need to boil your water before drinking it. Exercising caution will help you avoid illnesses like E. coli or Salmonella infection. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) encourages washing your hands thoroughly if you have had to touch floodwaters, and ensuring that children do the same. 

Drying Things Out After a Water Damage Incident

Once you have made sure that the area is safe, you can start taking steps to dry out your home from a flood. A professional service like MasterClean has the knowledge and equipment to work fast, making it one of the more efficient ways to tackle the issue. We will work with your insurance directly for billing and repairs, taking some of the stress out of a difficult situation.

After the area has been cleaned and dry, MasterClean can also inspect for mold and remove it from places that it may not be obvious. Our specialists know where to look for difficult-to-find mold growth, and understand how to remove it safely. Because mold can be a health irritant for many people, this can be an important step to take after your house has seen water damage. 

Contacting MasterClean for Water Damage and Mold Removal

After a flood, knowing the dos and don’ts of how to proceed will help protect you and your family from potential hazards like electrical shorts, contaminated sewage, and mold growth. Working with a professional will also help to dry out the area and limit the amount of lasting damage that might occur. To learn more about MasterClean’s water damage and mold removal services, contact us today.