Post-Flooding Dangers


Water is one of the most powerful forces on earth. Your home can suffer flood damage for different reasons. Depending on where you are located, flooding can occur because of an overflowing river or creek, a large amount of rain over a short period of time, or a spring thaw that happens quickly. Coastal flooding in South Carolina can come from hurricanes or other wind-driven waves.
No matter how the water arrives, it causes issues when it gets inside your home. Flooring can be warped. Electrical systems, heating and cooling systems, and gas systems can all be affected by floodwaters. The duration of the flooding and the height that the waters reached are important for determining the extent of the damage. But we at Sincerely Yours believe the most important criteria are used to ensure your safety after the waters recede.

Contamination
High waters can drive mud and other sediments into your home, leaving a thick layer of the mess even after the water has subsided. Flooding can also cause raw sewage to fill your home from overflowing sewer lines.

Debris left by the floodwaters can also cause secondary issues. The germs and bacteria that grow in the remnants of a Flood Damage Cleanup Columbia SC can cause health hazards. Garbage also attracts pests that will add even more issues to an already complicated situation.

Foods in the pantry can be dangerous after a flood. High humidity and the spread of insects can cause even seemingly dry foods to become infested. Throw out dry goods in boxes and also any food that came in contact with the floodwater.

Unless you get an official okay from your township or city, do not drink the water. Whether you have a well, spring water, or city water, the system may have been contaminated by floodwaters. Have a professional test your water after the flood to be sure it’s safe. Until then, drink bottled water.

Electrical And Gas Lines

Always remember that electrical lines and water do not mix. Standing in water and attempting to remove electrical wires is dangerous. Also remember that even if you do not have power in some locations of your house, some lines may not be dead.

Even if your home is not submerged in floodwater, your gas pipes could be filled with water.  If your lines have flooded, the water will need to be drained and your appliances will need to be checked to ensure they are safe for use. Do not relight flooded gas appliances. If any of your home’s installed gas appliances have been exposed to floodwaters, never attempt to relight them by yourself. Trying to relight any of your flooded gas appliances (water heaters, furnaces, boilers, stoves, etc.) can result in a fire, explosion or carbon monoxide hazard.

Errant Animals

Snakes, rodents, and stray animals can be dangerous hazards after a flood. To avoid bites and diseases, never handle or approach animals. Stay out of the water to avoid contact with any animals that may be hiding. Over the following days, the presence of mosquitos can be terrible and can also spread disease.

Post Flooding Experts In Columbia

Water damage is stressful; it is important to hire trusted, experienced experts. After floodwater has breached your home, contact Sincerely Yours Water Damage Columbia SC  specialists. Using state-of-the-art drying equipment, thermal imaging, and structural drying, they will restore your home or business to the highest quality standards.

Sincerely Yours has been handling water damage emergencies since 1959 in the Columbia area. Count on their expertise and historic flood experience to serve you with the fastest, easiest cleanup possible.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Is There Water Damage In My Home?

Not all water damage hits you in the face like a flood does. Some water damage can be more subtle, but its effect can be pretty devastating. Obviously, if you have a leak, or standing water, or a mudslide actively working its way into your home, then you are for sure in need of water damage cleanup in Irmo . Here are a few examples of more subtle water damage that you can have Sincerely Yours Inc. help you with. Soft Spots Soft spots in the flooring of your home can be due to small leakage over a long period of time. These are typically found in the kitchen or the bathroom where appliances may be leaking or you have regular spills that are not cleaned up right away. One of the more common areas for soft spots is around the toilet, and even if your toilet isn’t currently leaking, there may have been an issue in the past where the moisture was not dried thoroughly. This is something that could be very dangerous for you and your family, especially if it is located on a second o...
Read more

Carpet Cleaning

South Carolina Expert Carpet Cleaning Company – Make An Appointment Today! Our team is committed to serving our communities and making your environment fresher, cleaner, and brighter. Call us for a quote or consultation! We are always eager to serve our existing clients and new ones alike! For more than 50 years, Sincerely Yours has been helping South Carolina families clean up life’s little messes – like dirty footprints, pet accidents, and coffee spills. Founded in 1959 on a principle of honest pricing, top-quality work, and unprecedented customer service, Sincerely Yours has gained the trust of Columbia’s homeowners and businesses. Do You Suffer From Allergies or Other Health Issues Like Asthma and Eczema? A dusty and dirty carpet can contribute to these conditions if not kept properly clean! These allergens can trigger other illnesses that can negatively impact your health. Schedule a carpet cleaning now and help reduce the severity of your allergies. We’ll re...
Read more

Lessons Learned From Historic Floods In S.C.

Each time a hurricane sets its sights on South Carolina, comparisons are made to the past. The historic flooding caused by Hurricane Joaquin in 2015 will affect how local residents recover from Hurricane Florence, which might claim the title of “the worst storm to hit the region in decades.” Three years ago, the Columbia area was caught off guard. The heavy, continuous rain brought catastrophic flooding that peaked in South Carolina on October 4.   Numerous rivers burst their banks and washed away roads, bridges, vehicles, and homes. Hundreds of people required rescue. However, in the last three years, local leaders believe they are better prepared them for disasters. Lessons for the City Over the three years, the city, county, and federal government have made repairs and prepared for the future. For example: City officials revamped emergency response strategies, including better coordination among city departments and local agencies. Since Joaquin, the emergency...
Read more