What To Know About Flood Cleanup

By Lana Bray


The overflow of water that results in the submerging of dry land is known as a flood. This is a kind of natural disaster that is harmful to both properties and people. There are important things to know regarding safe and proper flood cleanup.

Not effectively reducing the humidity and moisture in an inside space or disposing of contaminate materials can create long-term problems and risks. Standing water, as well as wet materials, are considered the ideal breeding ground for an assortment of microorganisms, including mold, viruses and bacteria. These things can cause disease, damage to property and severe allergic reactions.

It is recommended to have certain things available in areas where this problem is expected. The minimal supplies that should be on hand include: flashlights, shovel, batteries, crow bar and cleaning supplies. Commonly used cleaning supplies for floods are trash bags, rubber gloves, brushes, rags, dust masks, sponges, buckets and brooms.

The initial step in cleanup is checking to make sure there is has been no structural damage done to the property. There should be no gas leaks or loose power lines. If standing water is still on the outside walls of the property, owners should not go inside. Houses constructed before 1970s are at a higher risk of having asbestos. This can lead to major health problems, such as lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma. Those who believe they might have this issue should consult with trained professionals as soon as possible to get the issue resolved.

As a general rule, individuals should throw away anything that is wet or was once wet. This includes cosmetics, toys, foam rubber, upholstered chairs and couches, food, medical supplies, mattresses, stuffed animals, paper products and books. Items that are usually safe to keep in these situations: electronics, dishes and non-rusted metal.

Mold is a common problem following floods. Failure to remove this can cause problems that persist long after the initial disaster. Mold and mildew will grow unless they are stopped. These are both dangerous to health and properties. If there is a musty smell in the property, mold is probably still there. To help with removal, use a cleaning solution that contains 1/4 cup of water and 3/4 white vinegar. This solution should only be applied to hard surfaces. Allow the cleaner to saturate and sit for some time before cleaning it. Do not use chlorine bleach to fight mold.

Owners should dry out the property, including all closets and cabinet doors. The longer things remain wet, the more bacteria will be able to form. Once the area has been dried out, the real cleanup can begin. Individuals should tackle one room at a time and start with the most damaged surfaces, as well as shelves, floors and walls. It is important to allow the solution to sit and work itself in before it is rinsed off or wiped up. Most people utilize two buckets at a time, one filled with rinsing water and the other with cleaning solution.

Floods pose many dangers to properties and people. Everything that survives these disasters should be taken care of. Proper flood cleanup is encouraged. Mold is a common problem following floods and is proven to be harmful to health of people and properties.




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