In the wake of a flood, houses are susceptible to multiple dangers. Whether it’s bacteria, mold, power, or rapid flows — all pose a danger to the health and safety of the occupants. Here are the most frequent hazards following a home flooding, and tips to avoid them:

Infections and Diseases

• Diseases can be contracted by eating or drinking contaminated products. Floodwaters can directly infect food with bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella, or indirectly during a power surge.
• Food that comes in direct contact with floodwater, including brewed beverages and products in jars, ought to be lost. Intact, canned goods might be washed and disinfected.
• Perishable foods such as eggs or meat, which have been left at over five degrees Celsius for over four hours, should also be discarded.
• All medications, makeup, and other toiletries that have touched floodwater must be thrown away.
• Those who have made contact with floodwater should practice decent hygiene — wash hands frequently with soap and water.
• Children must not be allowed to play in floodwater or with toys contaminated by floodwater.
• Those who have an open-ended should pay for it with a waterproof bandage and avoid exposure to floodwater.

Rapid Flowing Waters

• It is critical to avoid driving flowing water if it’s just a few centimeters deep. The vehicle could break down or have swept away.
• Individuals who choose to drive on flooded streets must track road conditions and comply with closed indications. They should also know about road hazards like sand, construction debris, tree limbs, and potholes.
• Walking through flowing water has to be avoided as well. Rapidly moving water could be fatal, even for seasoned swimmers.

Respiratory Hazards

• Areas with mold, which may form within 24-48 hours of flooding, should be prevented. Mould has to be removed before going back into the home. For mold and water damage cleanup, an expert damage restoration firm, such as PuroClean, ought to be hired. For more information about water damage restoration.
• Gas, propane, and diesel-powered equipment should be conducted just in well-ventilated outdoor areas to prevent carbon monoxide
• It is ideal to steer clear of building materials that may contain lead, such as painted surfaces and plumbing.
• Nobody should enter places where asbestos may have been used as a construction material.

Chemical Exposure

• Those people that are returning home after a flood should be aware of potential chemical hazards that floodwaters could have carried.
• Only firefighters or other trained employees should move propane tanks, as they may cause a fire or burst.
• It’s ideal to steer clear of flooded cars to prevent electrical shock and contact with acid that may have spilled from a damaged car battery.

Electrical and Gas Dangers

• No one must walk or drive through floodwater if downed power lines are inside.
• Property owners must not enter their homes if the primary power switch wasn’t turned off before flooding. A qualified electrician should declare the home safe before re-entering.
• The house must be evacuated if anybody strikes methane gas inside.

To find out more about home flood safety, here are tips to shield homes from floods and the way to maintain water out of a cellar. The PuroClean team stands ready to give professional restoration services to some homes affected by fire, water, or mold damage. Click this link to know more.