In the United States flooding is the most common natural disaster and is responsible for more deaths than any other natural disaster. Aside from the high death toll it also exacts a high price in terms of property damage, which is estimated to be more than $1 billion each year. Just recently in Northern Scottsdale, Arizona, water damage due to flooding led to approximately $2 million in damages. The water damaged not only walls and carpeting but also led to unrecoverable losses in materials like books and computers. In New York, extensive water damage at CBS forced the “Early Show” to change locations on the morning of August 8. All over New York water damage became a problem due to heavy thunderstorms and flash floods.
Flooding is also nothing new to California residents. In fact California is currently making news headlines as its governor tries to push for better flood control infrastructure. In California water damage is an imminent risk faced by everyone since its levees are not sound and fail at least once every 7.5 months. The surprising thing about flooding is that it doesn't happen only in high risk coastal areas. In fact, ΒΌ of areas that are flooded each year are those classified as low and moderate flood risk areas. This means that wherever you live flooding is a risk you face especially during hurricane season.
To lessen the damages brought about by flooding you should take proper precautions before flooding occurs and immediately call for help right after the flood. Safety precautions prior to flooding include being aware of weather conditions that might result in flooding and having an evacuation plan both for your home and business. To lessen the impact of water damage brought about by flooding make sure you do the following before the flood arrives:
•Secure shelves and other like furniture to the wall
•Place all electronic equipment, clothes, and cushions in high shelves.
•Remove the carpets and rugs.
When your home or business gets flooded you should call a water damage restoration expert like 1-800-FLOODED immediately. 1-800-FLOODED offers 24 hours water extraction service so you won't have to wait. Remember the longer the water stays the more damage it does. This means that while waiting for help to come you should start water removal by doing the following:
•Bail out/mop up as much water as you can while waiting for professional help to arrive.
•Remove all wet fabric (clothes, drapes, sheets, etc.), cushions, and rugs and hang them out to dry.
•Wipe all the furniture with dry cloth.
When the professionals arrive they will take over the process of water removal. Note though that water extraction is simply the first step in water damage restoration. Water damage restoration will entail other processes like structural drying, mold prevention/removal, and decontamination, among others.
