What Precautions to Take After a Hurricane Floods the Home
They are taking the proper steps after hurricane-related flooding keeps families safe and can reduce property damage. Find out more about these steps with Austin Fire and Flood. After a significant storm, homeowners may also contact the company for flood restoration services in Austin, TX.
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Keep Out of the Floodwater
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), homeowners should stay out of floodwater as much as possible after a hurricane. This advice includes the water inside the home, which may remain until a flood restoration service can address the flooding.
If you contact the floodwater, wash up with soap and water afterward. Homeowners may also use alcohol-based hand sanitizer if they do not have access to clean water or soap. Floodwater can contain contaminants like:
- Bacteria
- Viruses
- Dangerous chemicals
It may also carry electricity from downed power lines, so stay away.
Use Generators Cautiously
Flooding from hurricanes can easily knock out the power to large areas. In this situation, homeowners often rely on gas-powered generators to provide energy. However, when they run, these generators produce carbon monoxide, a dangerous gas.
Gas generators should only operate outside the home. Place them away from windows or doors to prevent the gas from entering a flooded home.
Avoid Electrical Devices
Floodwater can get into the electrical devices in the home during a hurricane. So the experts recommend avoiding using appliances that sustained water damage until an electrician looks them over to reduce the risk of electrocution.
Homeowners may also need to turn off the power at the circuit breaker before unplugging a wet electronic device, like a computer. This step reduces the odds of getting a shock further.
Once homeowners schedule flood damage restoration services, they can focus on assessing the condition of their electronic devices.
Check Gas Pipes and Lines
Many property owners in the Austin area use natural gas for their power. Hurricanes and flooding may damage these pipes, causing leaks. Turn off the main gas valve if there could be a leak or if you notice the smell of gas.
Gas flooding into a home can adversely affect occupants’ health and safety. Contact the gas company immediately if you suspect a leak for any reason.
Stay Away from Home Until the Danger Passes
It can feel tempting to go home immediately after a hurricane and flooding. However, it’s better to wait until after a flood restoration services company finishes their work to return in some cases. Then, the professionals can conduct repairs and remove hazards, making the home safe before you return.
Homeowners should also wait until local news organizations say it’s safe to return to the area after a hurricane before they come home.
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Austin Fire and Flood responds fast when you need help. As a locally owned and operated company, they can often get on their way within 30 minutes to assist property owners. The company’s certified technicians use their experience to help with property repairs after offering a 100% free inspection.
Call Austin Fire and Flood at (512) 912-6814 for flood restoration services in Austin, TX.
