Make sure that a building that has suffered water damage is safe to enter. Do not enter the building if you detect obvious signs of structural instability (sagging ceiling, large cracks or gaps in the foundation or collapsed walls). You will need to have a professional assessment made.
Inspect Indoor Safety
Even if the building is structurally safe, enter it carefully. Turn off the main water supply. Look out for floors that shift under your step (lifted tiles) or that are slippery. Broken glass and sharp metal objects may be hidden under mud or water too. Do not enter rooms where there is standing water.
Electricity Hazards
* Turn off electricity supply at the main circuit breaker panel, and use battery-powered flashlights.
* If you decide to use a gas or diesel-powered generator, don't do so in a confined space; generators emit carbon monoxide, which is poisonous and could seriously affect your health.
* Do not touch exposed electrical wire, cable or outlets. Remember, you may not see them if they are submerged under water!
* If you must use portable electric generators, please exercise extreme caution. They can be deadly when not properly installed and operated. Never connect generators to household wiring.
* Do not use your home vacuum to remove water.
* Try not to use any electrical appliances, especially while standing on wet floors. Water-damaged electrical appliances could cause electric shock, overheat or start a fire.
Natural Gas Hazards
Be sure to turn off the main gas valve as soon as you enter a water-damaged building. After you are inside, check for natural gas odor and ventilate to get rid of it. Natural gas spreads quickly and combusts easily, and a leak can cause gas poisoning and /or start fires - and explosions.
Water Safety
Piped water may be contaminated after water damage. Until you are sure of the safety of your water supply, use only bottled water, boiled water or disinfected (1/8 teaspoon of liquid household bleach per gallon) water for drinking, cooking and washing.
Molds and Mildew
Mold growth often occurs following water damage, especially if temperatures are above 70 degrees F. Mold spores can trigger health problems ranging from allergic reactions to cancer. Sealing off areas or objects that are contaminated, minimizing air movement, and blocking ventilation openings will inhibit the spread of mold spores. Air dry all wet fabrics and upholstered cushions as quickly as possible.
Sewage
If the water damage was caused by sewage backup or if sewage contaminated floodwaters have entered the building, you may need to hire a clean up professional. Sewage contains contaminants that can seriously affect your health. Wear protective clothing during water clean up, and if your HVAC system has been in direct contact with water, do not turn it on. It could serve as a channel for spreading contamination.
Wildlife
Stray animals, including snakes and rodents, can easily enter water-damaged buildings through cracks and pipes. Set up snap traps for mice and rats. Remember, some animals carry rabies. Never use your bare hands to remove debris, and contact local animal control officers if you need help.
Protective Clothing
Always wear protective clothing and respirators during water clean up, and remember to wash your hands using disinfectant as often as needed.
