Keep Your Home Free From Water Damage Mold - Chicago IL 708-255-2438
You will be amazed by the infinite number of indoor mold varieties that have the deadly potential to cause bodily harm to humans. If left untreated, water damage mold has the power to trigger allergies, skin rash, running nose, eye irritation, cough, or difficulty in breathing.
There is nothing far more devastating to the health of a family and the structure of a building than mold growth. It is one of the most destructive actions of water damage and can sprout within 48 hours of water leakage
.
Fortunately, mold growth can be easily removed these days with the assistance of professional water damage restoration companies. Reputed restoration companies employ certified water damage restoration specialists and technicians who are trained to respond to mold damage quickly, effectively and appropriately. Once mold damage has been rectified, it is vital to prevent further mold formation by ensuring diligent house-keeping. The only way to prevent water damage mold is to eliminate all sources of water leakage and excess moisture. Scientific studies have stated that the humidity level in any part of a home or building should not reach or exceed 55% Relative Humidity (RH), in which case there is every chance for toxic molds and other forms of biological contaminates to thrive and multiply in the living space.
The very first signs of mold in water-damaged homes can be found on walls, wood furniture, clothes in the laundry bin, carpets, leather upholstery as well as in air-conditioners and HVAC systems. So keep your eyes open for mildew in the attic, basement, closets, bathroom, laundry bag, garbage cans and toys box. If your home has a tendency for moisture-related problems, do not install carpeting to help prevent water damage mold growth. Homeowners who reside in homes that have a tendency for moisture-related problems should be extra-cautious when it comes to a dripping faucet or a leaking ceiling.
Invest in water leak detection systems fitted with moisture sensors to help keep a watch on any leaks that occur while you are not at home. Use a dehumidifier to help control the humidity level in damp areas and frequently change the water in the dehumidifier. Use vents and exhaust fans to improve air circulation in all rooms and prevent excess humidity.
That’s right! Ventilation is a pre-requisite in the prevention of water damage mold. Make sure windows are kept wide open before bathing or taking a shower and ensure to leave it open for a short while afterwards. If you are in the habit of drying clothes inside the home, it is wiser to shut the door of the room where the clothes are being dried and let fresh air in by keeping the windows open. Always allow space for air to circulate around your furniture as mold can easily make comfortable on leather upholstery. Also ensure to dry or restore water damaged areas or items within 24 to 48 hours of contact with water. The best way to eliminate all sources of mold is to clean wet areas with water, mild detergent and disinfectant.
Monday, August 9, 2010
How to Clean Up a Basement After a Flood - Chicago IL 708-255-2438
How to Clean Up a Basement After a Flood - Chicago IL 708-255-2438
During a flood, basements are almost always at risk for flooding. Cleaning up a finished basement is as difficult as cleaning up a regular room in your house, but cleaning an unfinished basement after a flood is quite a bit easier. This article explains the steps you need to take to safely and properly clean your unfinished basement after a flood. Flood waters affect everyone around you, so your neighbors will probably be too busy cleaning their own basements to help you. Use this as your guide to clean your flooded basement correctly.
1
Run your sump pump. If you don't have one, it would be helpful to get one now to drain your basement of any leftover water. If your basement has a floor drain, mop all the water to the drain. If your basement does not, mop up the excess water and squeeze it into your bucket.
Step
2
Turn on a few large fans and a dehumidifier to dry out the basement. Typically this will take at least 24 hours, but you'll be too busy to notice. It is important to quickly dry your basement to prevent mold, mildew and extra bacteria growth. Bacteria love moist areas. Don't give them a nice home.
Step
3
Haul up soggy and destroyed belongings while the basement dries. This is the hardest part of a flood cleanup effort. Always lift with your legs because wet boxes and belongings way much more than dry ones.
Step
4
Discard anything that cannot be properly sanitized. Paper products like books, boxes and cards should get thrown away. Anything that can be hosed down with bleach and water, place in your yard or driveway to clean later.
Step
5
Scrub the walls and floors that got wet with a solution made of 1 cup of bleach and 5 gallons of water. Be sure to wear rubber gloves and work clothes.
Step
6
Run the fans and the dehumidifier once again. Again, this could take 24 hours or more. Although the moisture in your basement is now clean moisture, you don't want it to attract bacteria. Your basement should no longer look or feel moist and humid.
During a flood, basements are almost always at risk for flooding. Cleaning up a finished basement is as difficult as cleaning up a regular room in your house, but cleaning an unfinished basement after a flood is quite a bit easier. This article explains the steps you need to take to safely and properly clean your unfinished basement after a flood. Flood waters affect everyone around you, so your neighbors will probably be too busy cleaning their own basements to help you. Use this as your guide to clean your flooded basement correctly.
1
Run your sump pump. If you don't have one, it would be helpful to get one now to drain your basement of any leftover water. If your basement has a floor drain, mop all the water to the drain. If your basement does not, mop up the excess water and squeeze it into your bucket.
Step
2
Turn on a few large fans and a dehumidifier to dry out the basement. Typically this will take at least 24 hours, but you'll be too busy to notice. It is important to quickly dry your basement to prevent mold, mildew and extra bacteria growth. Bacteria love moist areas. Don't give them a nice home.
Step
3
Haul up soggy and destroyed belongings while the basement dries. This is the hardest part of a flood cleanup effort. Always lift with your legs because wet boxes and belongings way much more than dry ones.
Step
4
Discard anything that cannot be properly sanitized. Paper products like books, boxes and cards should get thrown away. Anything that can be hosed down with bleach and water, place in your yard or driveway to clean later.
Step
5
Scrub the walls and floors that got wet with a solution made of 1 cup of bleach and 5 gallons of water. Be sure to wear rubber gloves and work clothes.
Step
6
Run the fans and the dehumidifier once again. Again, this could take 24 hours or more. Although the moisture in your basement is now clean moisture, you don't want it to attract bacteria. Your basement should no longer look or feel moist and humid.
Common Scams In Water Damage Restoration - Chicago IL 708-255-2438
Common Scams In Water Damage Restoration - Chicago IL 708-255-2438
There are a lot of reasons water damage can happen to the home. It is not just the flood that can cause water damage. There are many possible causes for moisture and water problems in the home such as sewage backup, busted pipes, water streams under the basement, downspouts leading water to the home and other causes. Because there are so many causes of water damage, there are also many companies that offer water damage restoration.
Because people often get distressed when they experience a water problem in their home, they would want to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. And this is why some people get scammed by individuals and companies who would like to make easy money. Some people are just all too willing to spend any amount just to get their homes and their lives back to the way they were before they were affected by the water problem. Some companies take advantage of homeowners like these and charge them excessive amounts for services that were not performed or services that are actually cheaper than the amount being charged to the homeowner.
To avoid being scammed, make sure to ask for a written cost estimate from the contractor. The contractor will explain to you the details of the quotation so that you understand the work involved in the water damage restoration.
A so-called water damage restoration company who is out to scam clients only gives a rough estimate of cost and will not explain what kinds of services will be provided for that amount. Only after the water damage restoration has been completed will the company present all the costs involved and you will be shocked to learn just how far the estimate was to the cost now being presented. But because the water damage restoration services have already been performed, the homeowner will have a hard time challenging the billing.
There are also scammers who visit flooded towns and who offer free evaluation of the water damage in the home. The scammer will then provide cost estimation and ask for a down payment for the project supposedly so that work can be immediately carried out. The company will also convince the homeowner that water damage restoration needs to be done that very moment. After getting the down payment, the company will pretend that they need additional equipment from their office or will tell the homeowner that the real work will begin the following day. The scammer will then leave with your money as well as the money they gathered from other homeowners and then leave town. These companies usually use fake documents to convince homeowners that they have a legitimate business operation.
There are a lot of reasons water damage can happen to the home. It is not just the flood that can cause water damage. There are many possible causes for moisture and water problems in the home such as sewage backup, busted pipes, water streams under the basement, downspouts leading water to the home and other causes. Because there are so many causes of water damage, there are also many companies that offer water damage restoration.
Because people often get distressed when they experience a water problem in their home, they would want to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. And this is why some people get scammed by individuals and companies who would like to make easy money. Some people are just all too willing to spend any amount just to get their homes and their lives back to the way they were before they were affected by the water problem. Some companies take advantage of homeowners like these and charge them excessive amounts for services that were not performed or services that are actually cheaper than the amount being charged to the homeowner.
To avoid being scammed, make sure to ask for a written cost estimate from the contractor. The contractor will explain to you the details of the quotation so that you understand the work involved in the water damage restoration.
A so-called water damage restoration company who is out to scam clients only gives a rough estimate of cost and will not explain what kinds of services will be provided for that amount. Only after the water damage restoration has been completed will the company present all the costs involved and you will be shocked to learn just how far the estimate was to the cost now being presented. But because the water damage restoration services have already been performed, the homeowner will have a hard time challenging the billing.
There are also scammers who visit flooded towns and who offer free evaluation of the water damage in the home. The scammer will then provide cost estimation and ask for a down payment for the project supposedly so that work can be immediately carried out. The company will also convince the homeowner that water damage restoration needs to be done that very moment. After getting the down payment, the company will pretend that they need additional equipment from their office or will tell the homeowner that the real work will begin the following day. The scammer will then leave with your money as well as the money they gathered from other homeowners and then leave town. These companies usually use fake documents to convince homeowners that they have a legitimate business operation.
Fire Damage Prevention - Chicago IL 708-255-2438
Fire Damage Prevention - Chicago IL 708-255-2438
http://www.hitechnationalfloodrelief.com
It is not true that firedamage is inevitable. Firedamage, unlike flood, can surely be prevented only if every family member takes full responsibility about the following firedamage prevention tips.
1. No smokers allowed in the bedroom please.
2. Turn off all appliances before bedtime.
3. Don't leave you're your kitchen unattended when you have something on the stove or in the oven. .
4. Keep your fire extinguishers away from the kitchen and the garage but keep them visible.
5. If you have a fireplace, always have your chimney inspected and swept at least once a year
6. If it's Christmas time and you have a real fire tree for Christmas, always water it everyday to keep it wet
7. Little gadgets should always be plugged off when not in use.
8. Make sure that you have a pre-fireplan
9. Keep your television away from your curtains.
10. Have your electrical installations checked at least once a year.
Take the above firedamage prevention tips with you. Save your home from firedamage. Save your family!
http://www.hitechnationalfloodrelief.com
It is not true that firedamage is inevitable. Firedamage, unlike flood, can surely be prevented only if every family member takes full responsibility about the following firedamage prevention tips.
1. No smokers allowed in the bedroom please.
2. Turn off all appliances before bedtime.
3. Don't leave you're your kitchen unattended when you have something on the stove or in the oven. .
4. Keep your fire extinguishers away from the kitchen and the garage but keep them visible.
5. If you have a fireplace, always have your chimney inspected and swept at least once a year
6. If it's Christmas time and you have a real fire tree for Christmas, always water it everyday to keep it wet
7. Little gadgets should always be plugged off when not in use.
8. Make sure that you have a pre-fireplan
9. Keep your television away from your curtains.
10. Have your electrical installations checked at least once a year.
Take the above firedamage prevention tips with you. Save your home from firedamage. Save your family!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Everything You Need To Know About Water Damage Restoration - Chicago IL 708-255-2438
Everything You Need To Know About Water Damage Restoration - Chicago IL 708-255-2438
In order to prevent permanent damage, water damage restoration must be implemented immediately. This will require the appropriate equipment and expertise to dry, repair, and mitigate damages. The space will have to be deodorized, disinfected and totally dried. Rotting, mildew, growth of toxic and dangerous substances will not wait. The sooner you begin the restoration process the better.
Toxic molds, fungi, and bacteria breed very rapidly in a flooded building. Sanitizing agents, germicides, and anti-microbial treatments will destroy these toxic substances, but they have to be applied quickly and correctly. Flooded buildings emit an obnoxious odor as the rotting begins. There are some effective deodorization products that will help remove the disgusting smells. Use appropriate protective gear to avoid being poisoned. Protect yourself, wear the appropriate safety masks and clothing when dealing with these toxic environments.
Much of the damage caused by water, flooding, and excessive moisture is the swelling and warping of floors, walls and furniture. Industrial grade dehumidifiers will have to be installed and run day and night. An effective technique for drying a room is to run high speed fans continuously to keep a steady flow of air streaming through the room. The air motion will promote evaporation.
If you do the restoration yourself, be very careful not to be exposed to the toxic materials. These molds, fungi and bacteria can have long term negative health effects on you, your family and your pets. You probably should consider hiring a professional to handle the restoration process. This is dangerous work that can be potentially fatal if proper preventative measures are not implemented correctly.
You should review your property insurance policy now before there is an incident that causes damage. In the United States private insurance companies will not insure property for flood damage. If your property is located in a designated flood zone you may purchase federal sponsored flood insurance. Read and review your property insurance policies carefully. Consult with your property insurance agent to update your property insurance policies. It is important to completely understand your coverage before you have to make a claim.
Water damage caused by leaking roofs and bad plumping may or may not be covered by your property insurance policy. Read your policy carefully to find out what is covered and what is not covered. Make a list ahead of time of your personal possessions and their value. This list can be very handy for dealing with insurance claims and completing government assistance applications.
Water damage must be remedied quickly. If the problem is not addressed quickly, water damage will totally destroy your property. It will cost you more money if you delay. It is likely that you will not have the equipment necessary to completely remove all the water, dry out everything, destroy any toxic material, and deodorize the entire space. This is why hiring a professional company for this job is suggested.
If you want to hire a professional company to handle your water damage restoration project, they are easy to find on the world wide web. Find a reputable and experienced professional service to restore your property. You can ask your insurance adjuster who they would recommend for quality service. Ask for written estimates from several companies. Review the estimates carefully. This project does not have to be expensive if you understand the procedure, but it is important that it is done quickly, safely, and correctly
In order to prevent permanent damage, water damage restoration must be implemented immediately. This will require the appropriate equipment and expertise to dry, repair, and mitigate damages. The space will have to be deodorized, disinfected and totally dried. Rotting, mildew, growth of toxic and dangerous substances will not wait. The sooner you begin the restoration process the better.
Toxic molds, fungi, and bacteria breed very rapidly in a flooded building. Sanitizing agents, germicides, and anti-microbial treatments will destroy these toxic substances, but they have to be applied quickly and correctly. Flooded buildings emit an obnoxious odor as the rotting begins. There are some effective deodorization products that will help remove the disgusting smells. Use appropriate protective gear to avoid being poisoned. Protect yourself, wear the appropriate safety masks and clothing when dealing with these toxic environments.
Much of the damage caused by water, flooding, and excessive moisture is the swelling and warping of floors, walls and furniture. Industrial grade dehumidifiers will have to be installed and run day and night. An effective technique for drying a room is to run high speed fans continuously to keep a steady flow of air streaming through the room. The air motion will promote evaporation.
If you do the restoration yourself, be very careful not to be exposed to the toxic materials. These molds, fungi and bacteria can have long term negative health effects on you, your family and your pets. You probably should consider hiring a professional to handle the restoration process. This is dangerous work that can be potentially fatal if proper preventative measures are not implemented correctly.
You should review your property insurance policy now before there is an incident that causes damage. In the United States private insurance companies will not insure property for flood damage. If your property is located in a designated flood zone you may purchase federal sponsored flood insurance. Read and review your property insurance policies carefully. Consult with your property insurance agent to update your property insurance policies. It is important to completely understand your coverage before you have to make a claim.
Water damage caused by leaking roofs and bad plumping may or may not be covered by your property insurance policy. Read your policy carefully to find out what is covered and what is not covered. Make a list ahead of time of your personal possessions and their value. This list can be very handy for dealing with insurance claims and completing government assistance applications.
Water damage must be remedied quickly. If the problem is not addressed quickly, water damage will totally destroy your property. It will cost you more money if you delay. It is likely that you will not have the equipment necessary to completely remove all the water, dry out everything, destroy any toxic material, and deodorize the entire space. This is why hiring a professional company for this job is suggested.
If you want to hire a professional company to handle your water damage restoration project, they are easy to find on the world wide web. Find a reputable and experienced professional service to restore your property. You can ask your insurance adjuster who they would recommend for quality service. Ask for written estimates from several companies. Review the estimates carefully. This project does not have to be expensive if you understand the procedure, but it is important that it is done quickly, safely, and correctly
Common Scams In Water Damage Restoration - Chicago IL 708-255-2438
Common Scams In Water Damage Restoration - Chicago IL 708-255-2438
There are a lot of reasons water damage can happen to the home. It is not just the flood that can cause water damage. There are many possible causes for moisture and water problems in the home such as sewage backup, busted pipes, water streams under the basement, downspouts leading water to the home and other causes. Because there are so many causes of water damage, there are also many companies that offer water damage restoration.
Because people often get distressed when they experience a water problem in their home, they would want to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. And this is why some people get scammed by individuals and companies who would like to make easy money. Some people are just all too willing to spend any amount just to get their homes and their lives back to the way they were before they were affected by the water problem. Some companies take advantage of homeowners like these and charge them excessive amounts for services that were not performed or services that are actually cheaper than the amount being charged to the homeowner.
To avoid being scammed, make sure to ask for a written cost estimate from the contractor. The contractor will explain to you the details of the quotation so that you understand the work involved in the water damage restoration.
A so-called water damage restoration company who is out to scam clients only gives a rough estimate of cost and will not explain what kinds of services will be provided for that amount. Only after the water damage restoration has been completed will the company present all the costs involved and you will be shocked to learn just how far the estimate was to the cost now being presented. But because the water damage restoration services have already been performed, the homeowner will have a hard time challenging the billing.
There are also scammers who visit flooded towns and who offer free evaluation of the water damage in the home. The scammer will then provide cost estimation and ask for a down payment for the project supposedly so that work can be immediately carried out. The company will also convince the homeowner that water damage restoration needs to be done that very moment. After getting the down payment, the company will pretend that they need additional equipment from their office or will tell the homeowner that the real work will begin the following day. The scammer will then leave with your money as well as the money they gathered from other homeowners and then leave town. These companies usually use fake documents to convince homeowners that they have a legitimate business operation.
There are a lot of reasons water damage can happen to the home. It is not just the flood that can cause water damage. There are many possible causes for moisture and water problems in the home such as sewage backup, busted pipes, water streams under the basement, downspouts leading water to the home and other causes. Because there are so many causes of water damage, there are also many companies that offer water damage restoration.
Because people often get distressed when they experience a water problem in their home, they would want to resolve the problem as quickly as possible. And this is why some people get scammed by individuals and companies who would like to make easy money. Some people are just all too willing to spend any amount just to get their homes and their lives back to the way they were before they were affected by the water problem. Some companies take advantage of homeowners like these and charge them excessive amounts for services that were not performed or services that are actually cheaper than the amount being charged to the homeowner.
To avoid being scammed, make sure to ask for a written cost estimate from the contractor. The contractor will explain to you the details of the quotation so that you understand the work involved in the water damage restoration.
A so-called water damage restoration company who is out to scam clients only gives a rough estimate of cost and will not explain what kinds of services will be provided for that amount. Only after the water damage restoration has been completed will the company present all the costs involved and you will be shocked to learn just how far the estimate was to the cost now being presented. But because the water damage restoration services have already been performed, the homeowner will have a hard time challenging the billing.
There are also scammers who visit flooded towns and who offer free evaluation of the water damage in the home. The scammer will then provide cost estimation and ask for a down payment for the project supposedly so that work can be immediately carried out. The company will also convince the homeowner that water damage restoration needs to be done that very moment. After getting the down payment, the company will pretend that they need additional equipment from their office or will tell the homeowner that the real work will begin the following day. The scammer will then leave with your money as well as the money they gathered from other homeowners and then leave town. These companies usually use fake documents to convince homeowners that they have a legitimate business operation.
Water Damage Restoration Need Not Upset Your Insurance Claims in Chicago 708-255-2438
Water Damage Restoration Need Not Upset Your Insurance Claims in Chicago 708-255-2438
http://www.hitechnationalfloodrelief.com
Reputable water damage restoration companies in the U.S. now offer specially formulated Insurance Claim Management Service to clients who have suffered serious water damage caused by hurricanes, fires or other disasters covered under their insurance policies.
Water damage is the number one reason for property damage and the most common motive for home insurance claims. Flooding and similar natural calamities continue to cause considerable damage to infrastructure and housing, leaving hapless victims at the mercy of insurance giants in bearing water damages. The cost involved in recovering the damaged property through a specialist operation certainly invites a hefty price tag. Often, a majority of the victims are unable to file their claim to the insurance companies without running the risk of getting no settlement at all.
Insurance companies hire insurance adjusters to protect their interests the profits of their shareholder but do nothing to assist the claimant. Water damage restoration companies that offer Insurance Claim Management Service are empowered by a qualified team of professionals, well-versed in the ins and outs of insurance claims. Obtaining the most favorable claim adjustment for clients is top priority for them.
Keeping the best interests of the clients in mind, these companies work out claims and rectify claim discrepancies with perfect ease. They enjoy long-standing relationships with all leading insurance companies in the United States, which puts them at an advantage to expedite the insurance claim process and obtain the best compensation that covers all water damages for their clients. Their Insurance Claim Management Service helps speed up the process of site inspection and claim settlement, allowing clients to resume normal business soon after water damage restoration. Some companies go to great lengths to reduce financial stress on the clients by billing the insurance company for the entire charge incurred on water damage restoration, insurance management and other services extended.
There are plenty of water damage companies in the U.S. that are capable of restoring properties to their pre-incident condition. A professional company will document the items that have been affected by the water damage and refer to industry standard pricing guides such as The Blue Book so as to determine the proper value of the items lost as well as their restoration service.
http://www.hitechnationalfloodrelief.com
Reputable water damage restoration companies in the U.S. now offer specially formulated Insurance Claim Management Service to clients who have suffered serious water damage caused by hurricanes, fires or other disasters covered under their insurance policies.
Water damage is the number one reason for property damage and the most common motive for home insurance claims. Flooding and similar natural calamities continue to cause considerable damage to infrastructure and housing, leaving hapless victims at the mercy of insurance giants in bearing water damages. The cost involved in recovering the damaged property through a specialist operation certainly invites a hefty price tag. Often, a majority of the victims are unable to file their claim to the insurance companies without running the risk of getting no settlement at all.
Insurance companies hire insurance adjusters to protect their interests the profits of their shareholder but do nothing to assist the claimant. Water damage restoration companies that offer Insurance Claim Management Service are empowered by a qualified team of professionals, well-versed in the ins and outs of insurance claims. Obtaining the most favorable claim adjustment for clients is top priority for them.
Keeping the best interests of the clients in mind, these companies work out claims and rectify claim discrepancies with perfect ease. They enjoy long-standing relationships with all leading insurance companies in the United States, which puts them at an advantage to expedite the insurance claim process and obtain the best compensation that covers all water damages for their clients. Their Insurance Claim Management Service helps speed up the process of site inspection and claim settlement, allowing clients to resume normal business soon after water damage restoration. Some companies go to great lengths to reduce financial stress on the clients by billing the insurance company for the entire charge incurred on water damage restoration, insurance management and other services extended.
There are plenty of water damage companies in the U.S. that are capable of restoring properties to their pre-incident condition. A professional company will document the items that have been affected by the water damage and refer to industry standard pricing guides such as The Blue Book so as to determine the proper value of the items lost as well as their restoration service.
Features of a Flood Plain - Chicago IL 708-255-2438
Features of a Flood Plain - Chicago IL 708-255-2438
http://www.hitechnationalfloodrelief.com
You can tell many flood plains just by their locations, such as those near river banks, or oceans. Low lying areas such as coastal terrain are susceptible to flooding. Cities that are below sea level such as Galveston or New Orleans are more prone to flooding problems than cities further inland.
By contrast, heavy downpours from storms or hurricanes that come inland and dump huge amounts of rain in hills or mountains, such as places in California, can cause major mudslides and flooding, yet most mountains and hills are obviously not in a flood plain. In addition, hurricanes, tidal waves, and tsunamis cause major flooding almost every year throughout various parts of the world and cause flooding in areas that have never flooded.
If your home has flooded and it is safe to return (you should follow city plans for announcements and warnings), there are some things you can do to minimize further damage to floors and walls, as well as prevent some health problems. But before you start, be sure and take pictures of all damaged areas. You may need them for insurance purposes.
First, be sure to check with local authorities to see if your tap water is safe to drink or use in washing.
Check with local authorities to make sure there has been no chemical or gas spill in your area that would make it unsafe.
Before starting the cleaning process, you should wear protective clothing like rubber boots, gloves and a mask. Flood waters can bring in a host of bacteria and harmful insects (such as fire ants) and snakes.
Open all the windows and doors to air out your home. The quicker it starts drying out, the less time mold will have to get a stronghold.
Throw away any spoiled food and wash and dry any cans that may have been in flood water.
Use very hot water to wash all utensils and dishes that have been in flood water and if possible, boil them to sterilize.
Throw away any item that cannot be properly dried out to prevent mold. This might include mattresses, pillows, and some furniture.
Pull out carpeting and wash the slab with a bleach solution, which consists of 3/4 cup of liquid bleach and 1 cup trisodium phosphate (a cleaning agent which is good on oil and grease) to 1 gallon of water. Bleach kills mold that may have started growing which can cause health issues. Baseboards and wood flooring will most likely have to be torn out and replaced, so washing them with bleach to prevent mold is also a good idea until they can be taken up.
Wash walls and countertops with bleach solution.
Wash any outdoor furniture, swing sets, and toys with bleach solution. With the same solution, wash down patios, decks, driveways and garage floors.
All surfaces that are washed with bleach should be left to dry at least 2 minutes (more outside), then rinsed and dried.
http://www.hitechnationalfloodrelief.com
You can tell many flood plains just by their locations, such as those near river banks, or oceans. Low lying areas such as coastal terrain are susceptible to flooding. Cities that are below sea level such as Galveston or New Orleans are more prone to flooding problems than cities further inland.
By contrast, heavy downpours from storms or hurricanes that come inland and dump huge amounts of rain in hills or mountains, such as places in California, can cause major mudslides and flooding, yet most mountains and hills are obviously not in a flood plain. In addition, hurricanes, tidal waves, and tsunamis cause major flooding almost every year throughout various parts of the world and cause flooding in areas that have never flooded.
If your home has flooded and it is safe to return (you should follow city plans for announcements and warnings), there are some things you can do to minimize further damage to floors and walls, as well as prevent some health problems. But before you start, be sure and take pictures of all damaged areas. You may need them for insurance purposes.
First, be sure to check with local authorities to see if your tap water is safe to drink or use in washing.
Check with local authorities to make sure there has been no chemical or gas spill in your area that would make it unsafe.
Before starting the cleaning process, you should wear protective clothing like rubber boots, gloves and a mask. Flood waters can bring in a host of bacteria and harmful insects (such as fire ants) and snakes.
Open all the windows and doors to air out your home. The quicker it starts drying out, the less time mold will have to get a stronghold.
Throw away any spoiled food and wash and dry any cans that may have been in flood water.
Use very hot water to wash all utensils and dishes that have been in flood water and if possible, boil them to sterilize.
Throw away any item that cannot be properly dried out to prevent mold. This might include mattresses, pillows, and some furniture.
Pull out carpeting and wash the slab with a bleach solution, which consists of 3/4 cup of liquid bleach and 1 cup trisodium phosphate (a cleaning agent which is good on oil and grease) to 1 gallon of water. Bleach kills mold that may have started growing which can cause health issues. Baseboards and wood flooring will most likely have to be torn out and replaced, so washing them with bleach to prevent mold is also a good idea until they can be taken up.
Wash walls and countertops with bleach solution.
Wash any outdoor furniture, swing sets, and toys with bleach solution. With the same solution, wash down patios, decks, driveways and garage floors.
All surfaces that are washed with bleach should be left to dry at least 2 minutes (more outside), then rinsed and dried.
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