Ways to Minimize Water Damage After a Flash Flood
Dallas is no stranger to sudden, heavy rain. Flash floods can turn streets into rivers and leave homes submerged in water in a matter of minutes. While preventing flood damage entirely might be out of your control, there are steps you can take to minimize the impact on your property. Here’s how to weather the storm, protect your belongings, and minimize water damage after a flash flood:
During the Flood:
1. Safety First
Your safety comes first – always. Evacuate immediately if instructed by authorities. Don’t wade through floodwaters, as they can be contaminated and powerful. Turn off utilities at the main breaker box to prevent electrical hazards.
2. Move Valuables Upstairs
If time allows, you should try to move electronics, important documents, and irreplaceable values upstairs. Things like pictures, medical records, passports, and special gifts are important to try keeping safe and secure. But, as mentioned above, do this only if time allows because ultimately, your safety is top priority.
After the Flood:
1. Safety Check
Before entering your home again, make sure floodwaters have completely receded and there are no downed power lines that could pose a safety hazard.
2. Assess the Damage
Take pictures or videos of the damage for insurance purposes. Be cautious when entering – wear gloves, boots, and a mask to avoid mold spores and contaminated water.
3. Turn Off Utilities
If you didn’t do this during the flood, then make sure you turn off electricity and gas at the main valves to prevent further damage.
4. Open Doors and Windows
Allow for ventilation to dry the house. This is an important step, as you want to try your best to prevent mold growth. Mold only needs 24-48 hours to start growing and spreading. It thrives best in moist, wet, and humid conditions. Opening some doors and windows will allow you the chance to air out your home and hopefully avoid mold altogether.
5. Pump Out Standing Water
If safe to do so, use a sump pump or wet vac to remove standing water. Prioritize removing water from carpets and furniture to prevent permanent damage.
Drying & Cleaning:
1. Remove Wet Carpets
Salvaging carpets can be expensive and time-consuming. In most cases, discarding them and replacing the underlayment is the best course of action depending on the severity of the damage.
2. Dry Furniture
Move furniture away from walls and wipe down surfaces with disinfectant. You can also use fans and dehumidifiers to accelerate drying.
3. Clean and Disinfect
Sanitize flooded areas with a solution of bleach and water prevent mold growth. But, make sure to always wear protective gear when cleaning.
Seeking Water Damage Restoration Help:
Flood damage can be overwhelming. To top it off, the drying and cleaning process can be complex and time-consuming. Here’s where professional water damage restoration companies come in:
1. Expertise and Equipment
Firstly, restoration professionals have the experience and advanced equipment to handle large-scale water removal and drying. They can quickly assess the situation and identify hidden moisture. Not only that, but they’ll also implement a comprehensive drying plan to prevent structural damage and mold growth.
2. Content Restoration
Water damage can affect not just your home’s structure, but also your belongings. Professionals can help restore furniture, upholstery, and carpets, minimizing the need for replacements.
3. Insurance Claims
Last but not least, restoration companies like ours can work directly with your insurance company to document the damage and expedite the claims process. This takes the stress off your shoulders.
Contact Rescue Restoration Today for All Your Water Damage Restoration Needs in Dallas-Fort Worth and the Surrounding Areas
Remember: Your safety is paramount. Don’t attempt to tackle major repairs yourself. By taking these steps quickly and prioritizing safety, you can minimize water damage and get your Dallas home back on track after a flash flood. So, what are you waiting for? Contact Rescue Restoration today to handle the drying, cleaning, and restoration process. We’ll save you time, money, and a lot of hassle.
