Cleaning Up After A Storm: What You Need To Know

If you have ever been a victim of a flood, you know that it is a messy process to get everything back to normal. One of the main problems with storm damage cleanup is that you typically are not the only person who is in need of some restoration assistance. So if you have a storm about to happen, keep ICC’s Rochester number handy so you can be the first in line for restoration services. Here are some tips for getting through a storm damage cleanup. 

Don’t Enter Your Home

If you have evacuated because of a storm, do not enter your home until it has been cleared by a professional. Many times if there are downed power lines or submerged outlets, there could be an electrical current running in different areas of the home or in standing water around the house. The most helpful thing for you to do in this situation is to make phone calls to the restoration professionals and the utility companies and steer clear of the area. If you have a gas line going to your home, contact the gas utilities as well. If any gas has leaked out into the air or water you could have a big risk of fire or explosion. 

Don’t Touch Contaminated Water

Storm damage cleanups usually deal with some of the most contaminated water possible. None of the standing water is clean rain runoff or a leak from your tap lines. All of the flood water has passed through roads and sewers to include toxic materials and biohazards waste. You cannot be completely sure of what is in the water, so the best policy is not to touch it. You shouldn’t even walk through it in open-toed shoes if possible. Even if your tap water is running after a big storm with flooding, you probably shouldn’t drink it, just to be safe. Floods can compromise water lines, and you may want to stick to bottled water until you hear otherwise. 

Seek Medical Attention

A storm damage cleanup is more than just restoring your home to what it was, but it is also about taking care of those who are affected by the storm. If the storm was widespread enough, there may be medical outposts or supply centers that will offer medical attention, food, and shelter. Make sure you reach out to the community to get the help that you need, especially if you have no relatives nearby. Keep on the lookout for fatigue, headaches, nausea, and rashes. Some contaminated water that you may come in contact with could make you very sick and it is important to be seen by a medical professional as soon as possible. 

Storm damage cleanup can be an exhausting process, and it is important to stay safe and healthy. There are many threats to your health and safety and if you are careless it could cost you. If you find yourself in a situation where you are unsure of what you should do, contact a professional right away.