If your home flooded recently, you are probably under a great deal of stress. A flood can cause an incredible amount of damage. It can ruin furniture, drywall, electronics, and other prized possessions.
However, that isn’t the only damage that a flood can cause. A flood can also pose some major health hazards. While you have a lot on your plate right now, you should be aware of all of the potential problems facing you. If you can avoid these issues, it will be that much easier for you to reclaim your life.
Germs And Bacteria
When water comes into your home, it is often carrying germs and bacteria in it. In a number of cases, some of the water that enters the home is actually sewage water.
Until your home is fully cleaned, anyone that enters the home will be exposed to all of that bacteria. They could become very ill because of this. In fact, in regions where major flooding has occurred, serious disease outbreaks have taken place.
You need to make sure that your home is cleaned by trained professionals that know how to get rid of germs and bacteria. If you work with water restoration specialists, they will be able to ensure that your home is truly clean again. They can get rid of contamination that can’t be seen by the naked eye.
Respiratory Issues
When there is a lot of water in the home, it can quickly become very musty. This can cause some respiratory issues. If someone in your home has a condition that makes them prone to respiratory issues, such as asthma, this can be a big concern.
One of your primary goals should be to air your home out. If the weather allows, leave your windows open all day long. Place a number of fans in the home so that air will be able to circulate. In addition, you should make sure that you use a dehumidifier. This will be able to rid your home of any moisture that still remains.
Mold
One of the most dangerous problems associated with flooding may not show up immediately. If a part of your home isn’t properly cleaned, mold may start to grow. If that mold isn’t killed, it will begin to spread. Eventually, that mold could wind up taking over your home completely.
If you spot any mold, you should make sure you address it the right way. It’s a good idea to clean it with bleach; bleach can kill mold in an instance. If you work with water restoration professionals, they will be able to make sure that there is no mold present in your home.
Flooding can be a complete nightmare. No one wants to see their home destroyed by water. However, if you are able to avoid these health hazards, you will slowly but surely be able to get your life back to normal. You will be able to clean up your house, get rid of the water, and live a happy, healthy life.
Who Can Help?
You first need to call your home insurance provider and let them know there has been a lot of water damage to the property. A lot of times they will recommend a local water damage restoration company to assist with repairing and cleaning the home. Restoration companies can tackle all types of water damage to all parts of your house and can even clean up mold if your water damage happened previously. Most restoration companies will work directly with your insurance provider and make the process very simple. When I was living in Pueblo, Colorado area several years ago we used Water Damage Colorado Springs (www.WaterDamageColoradoSprings.co). They did an excellent job and if you happen to live in the Denver to Colorado Springs area I would highly recommend them. For most of our readers here in Anchorage, you can use www.AKRestoration.com. We have heard good things from them, so give them a try next time you need water damage restoration (hopefully never).