Rising Above Flood Damage

7/23/2018 (Permalink)

These basic cleaning requirements help you set the stage to successfully rise above the damage caused by floods.

When flood conditions affect your home in Watertown, NY, it is essential to deal with the damage immediately. All it takes is 1 inch of water to create unhealthy conditions, so addressing contaminated materials is of the utmost importance. Fortunately, whether it is carpet, household objects or furniture, if you have a flood to clean up, the same set of cleaning requirements can be followed. Therefore, after calling your insurance company and taking pictures of the conditions, you can be ready to tackle the job by following the steps below.

1. Remove Standing Water

Using protective clothing and eyewear, and tools that are safe in and around wet conditions, remove as much standing water as possible. Not only does this allow for further cleaning to take place, but you are eliminating a prime breeding ground for microorganisms such as mold, bacteria and even viruses.

2. Dry, Dry, Dry

Once the standing water has been reduced, the area and everything in it must be dried out. Fabrics and upholstery need to be addressed immediately and can be put in the sun or dryer, or taken to an appropriate cleaner. Photos, paper and books need more time to dry, so find a breathable yet sheltered area for storage. These cleaning requirements, if followed thoroughly, can save precious items and reduce the possible growth of allergens.

3. Disinfect and Clean

Due to possible contaminants in the water after a flood, clean all surfaces and objects with diluted bleach or another approved flood disinfectant. Remember, make sure the area in which you are working in is well ventilated. Cleaning agents like bleach have fumes that are harmful when inhaled over time.

These basic cleaning requirements help you set the stage to successfully rise above the damage caused by floods. Though the professionals in Watertown, NY, will take care of any structural issues in your home, you can be the first responder to your emergency. For more information, visit http://www.SERVPROjeffersoncounty.com/.