Water damage can happen without any warning. Water damage could be the result of hurricanes, torrential downpours, plumbing breakdowns or rising water levels. It is critical to act quickly to clean up the area so that further damage does not occur as well as to prevent any possible growth of mould. However, the safety of yourself and your family must always come first.
If you do not properly handle any of the flooded areas of your property, you are putting yourself at risk for potentially dangerous electrical hazards, exposure to contaminated water, or structural failure. Here are some important tips to remember if you are going to begin to clean up following any water damage Pompano Beach.
Turn Off the Gas and Electricity to Your House Immediately
Water and electricity do not mix well together; therefore, if you see that floodwaters have risen to the level of your electrical outlets, appliances or wiring, be sure to turn off your main electrical supply before you enter those areas. If you cannot get to the breaker panel safely, call your utility company or an emergency electrician. If you smell gas, evacuate the house immediately and call your gas company. Do not try to clean up in the home.
Prevent Exposure to Mold
To reduce the risk of exposure to mold and the adverse health effects associated with mold, residents of Pompano Beach should follow these guidelines to prevent excessive moisture from entering their homes due to flooding. Use natural ventilation (open windows) if the outdoor conditions are acceptable for ventilation. Use fans and dehumidifiers to remove excess moisture from the air.
Do not touch or disturb visible mold unless wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Remove saturated carpeting and drywall immediately. Mold spores can start to grow in 24-48 hours, depending on the humidity level in the air. Mold spores will continue to grow as long as there is moisture present, therefore eliminating moisture is critical to stopping mold growth.
Safe Removal of Contaminated Water
If a house has had a sewage back-up or flood from stormwater, that area will now contain pathogens. As such, do not reuse cleaning products or water but place contaminated waste in sealed bags and take them to a landfill. A professional service that renders water damage repair Pompano Beach will urge you to follow it under such circumstances.
Do Not Mix Cleaners
Mixing bleach (a chemical cleaner) with ammonia (another cleaning product) produces toxic fumes that will cause severe respiratory issues. Use only EPA-approved disinfecting products as directed on the label. When cleaning with strong chemical cleaners ensure you are in a well-ventilated area.
Documenting the Damage
Before you begin your water cleanup, document the damaged area with pictures and videos in preparation for filing insurance claims. At all times, do not put yourself in danger to capture documentation. Remember the importance of putting safety first.
Cleaning Companies in Pompano Beach
Professional companies that render water damage restoration Pompano Beach, Florida have all the equipment, knowledge, and training required to return your home to a safe and workable state.
Pompano Beach homeowners should take these safety tips into account before they rush to clean up after a water disaster because they could lose their health and safety if this is not done properly.