Coastal flooding can wreak havoc on communities, especially in the aftermath of a hurricane. Coastal areas are prone to flooding due to how close they are to the ocean. Coastal flooding can have serious consequences from drownings and injuries to contaminated-water-caused sicknesses. Some of these include injuries while attempting to escape from the water or from falling debris, respiratory illness due to damp environments that can lead to mold damage and coming into contact with contaminated flood water. Roughly half of the U.S. population lives in coastal areas, with some of the state’s most at risk of coastal flooding including Florida, Louisiana, California, New Jersey, and New York.
ServiceMaster Restore is there to help homeowners after disasters like Hurricane Ian. If you've suffered from hurricane damage that led to structural issues, we are here to help you get your home back in order while alleviating some of your stress after a traumatic storm. Call us TODAY at 1-800-RESPOND. We're Ready to Help!
With rapid response, your floors, walls, and priceless possessions can often be preserved and restored. We help minimize flood damage. ServiceMaster Restore’s professionals are available 24/7 for emergency water damage services or flooded house restoration. Our certified technicians come to your home with knowledge and confidence backed by decades of field experience. This is along with proven water clean-up techniques. Perfected in our own one-of-a-kind test house to remove moisture and promote effective drying. We’re with you at every step, until the last piece of furniture has been put back in place and you’re back in your home.
When it comes to flood cleanup, there are some things you can and should do immediately and others you'll need help doing. To ease your stress and guide you through what to do after a flood, the professionals at ServiceMaster Restore put together a list of five critical flood cleanup tips.
- CHECK FOR SAFETY HAZARDS.
If you have flood insurance, call your insurance agency first to report your flooded home. Then, start to assess the damage. Here are a few questions to ensure your safety: Is your home structurally secure? Call the authorities for a safety inspection. Water damage can threaten the stability of your home, from its foundations and floors to its supporting beams and ceilings. If the flood water level is significant or you are concerned the structure might collapse, do not enter your home. Is your power still on? Standing water mixed with electricity puts you at risk for electrical shock – so don't proceed without taking a few precautions. If you have safe exterior access to your breaker box, turn off the power before contacting any standing water. If not, contact your local power company before going inside. If you're unsure whether your power is still on, do not enter your house, especially if the water level is above your outlets. Is there a gas leak? If you smell any gas, do not enter your home. Gas leaks are highly hazardous and potentially deadly. Alert your utility company immediately if you suspect a gas leak in your home. Is the flood water contaminated? Sewage and harmful chemicals often contaminate flood waters, which can put your health at risk. If you suspect contaminated flood water, seek help to assess the damage, start the cleanup and protect your health and belongings.
- REMOVE ITEMS WITHIN YOUR REACH.
When authorities allow you to return to your home, remove as many items as possible to prevent further damage. Even things not in immediate contact with water can be damaged by increased humidity and moisture after a flood. The faster you remove items, the more likely they can be repaired or restored. Take particular care removing electronics – they too can create electric shock if powered up or plugged in, yet they are often the items you want to save most. Do not attempt to remove submerged electronics unless they are unplugged, and your power is off. Dry any recovered items completely to prevent mold growth and water damage, then store them in a secure, dry area.
- EXTRACT WATER AND PREVENT MOLD.
Depending on the water level and whether you have carpets, you can attempt water extraction on your own or call-in flood damage restoration specialists. If trying to remove the water yourself, rent a wet vacuum or submersible pump and remove as much water as possible. To prevent mold growth, keeping the humidity level as low as possible while you dry your home and furnishings is critical. Open as many windows as possible and run fans and dehumidifiers to increase the ventilation around your house and accelerate the drying process.
- CLEAN, SANITIZE AND RESTORE.
Once water-damaged areas have dried out, including wood beams, carpets, and drywall, you must clean and sanitize the surfaces to avoid toxic mold growth, infection, and disease. All carpeting and upholstery must be thoroughly cleaned and dried, including carpet padding and cushions. Carefully wash and sanitize anything touched by flood waters. You'll need different techniques and approaches to clean floors, countertops, carpets and furniture, clothes, and personal belongings. Some items may be beyond saving and should be replaced. Once your home is dry, assess the level of damage to prioritize what gets cleaned and what gets returned.
- KEEP A RUNNING INVENTORY.
Keep a careful record of all damages, including pictures, videos, and any estimates and receipts for restoration or repairs. You'll need these items for any insurance claims.
Flood Cleanup and Expert Guidance ServiceMaster Restore is by your side with our genuine commitment to getting you safely and effectively from crisis to resolution after Hurricane Ian. If your home is flooded and you need proven guidance and expertise, call the professional water damage repair experts at ServiceMaster Restore as soon as possible to handle the initial assessment, water extraction, and drying. We provide written estimates every step and have technologically advanced tools to ensure proper flood cleanup. ServiceMaster Restore also offers document restoration, electronics recovery, carpet cleaning, and mold remediation services to save your home and as many of your memories as possible after a flood. It's never easy to clean up after a flood, but it's easier with help from our experienced professionals.