When flooding hits, it can be a devastating and overwhelming experience. Your home or business may have been damaged, and it can be hard to know what to do next. However, if you act quickly, you can minimize the damage.
Here’s what you should do first:
1. Ensure your safety
Your safety should be your top priority. If the flooding is severe, it’s best to evacuate the area and seek higher ground. If you are unable to evacuate, stay in a safe area, and wait for help to arrive. Do not touch any electrical equipment if you are in standing water, and avoid standing water if possible.
2. Stop the water at its source
Unless the flooding is due to an act of nature, find the source of the water and turn it off or seal it up. The easiest way to stop water flow is to turn off the main water valve to the house. If possible, locate the valve before it floods so you can find it easily in case of a water emergency. Turn off the power If there is standing water in your home or business, it’s important to turn off the power to avoid electrical hazards. Locate your main circuit breaker and switch it off—but don’t walk through water to get to the fuse box. If you can’t reach the fuse box without stepping through water, or you are unsure how to do this, contact a qualified electrician to help.
3. Evacuate the premises
If a burst pipe or sewage leak is the issue, evacuate the premises and find a dry, safe spot outside of your home. It may be as close as the backyard or as far as the home of a neighbor or friend. Make sure that everyone—kids, pets, and friends who may have been at the house—is accounted for and unhurt. In the case of a natural disaster, locate a temporary shelter, either by asking authorities or listening to the local news. Get everyone relocated to the shelter as soon as possible.
4. Contact your insurance company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the flood damage. They will send an adjuster to assess the damage and provide you with further instructions on how to proceed. Take photos of the damage to document everything for your insurance claim.
5. Begin the cleanup process
If it’s safe to do so, you can begin the cleanup process. Start by removing any standing water using a wet-dry vacuum or a pump. If the water is contaminated, wear protective gear such as gloves, boots, and a mask to avoid exposure to harmful substances. Remove any damaged items, including furniture, carpets, and drywall, and dispose of them properly. Disinfect the affected areas with a mixture of water and bleach to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
6. Contact RestorationsPro – (423) 520.6653
Flood damage restoration is a complex process that requires professional expertise. Contact a reputable restoration company such as RestorationsPro to assess the damage and provide you with a detailed plan to restore your home or business to its pre-flood condition. Flood can be a traumatic experience, but if you follow these steps, you can minimize the damage and start the restoration process quickly.
Remember to prioritize your safety, stop water at it’s source, evacuate the premises, contact your insurance company, begin the cleanup process, and contact RestorationsPro for professional help. RestorationsPro.com provides fire and water damage restoration, 24-hours a day, 365 days a year. Call (423) 520.6653.
