Tampa – As heavy rain and snow threaten homes and businesses in several states and force evacuations in others, the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) has tips to help minimize the potential damage caused by flooding.
Immediately after the threat of physical danger has passed:
- Make sure the building is structurally safe to enter or reoccupy.
- Turn off electrical power. Do not use electricity until it is safe to do so.
- Ensure that natural gas sources are safely secured.
- Secure the exterior to prevent further water intrusion. This can include boarding up broken windows, making temporary roof repairs, sealing cracks or tacking down plastic sheeting against open gaps in walls or roofs.
When it’s safe to begin cleanup:
- Disconnect all electronics/electrical equipment and move it to a safe, dry location.
- Remove as much standing water as possible from inside the building.
- Begin to remove water-damaged materials immediately.
- Ventilate the home as best you can with fans and/or dehumidifiers.
- Contact a water extraction company, if necessary, for assistance.
By taking immediate action, you will reduce the amount of damage and increase the chance of salvaging usable materials. You’ll also reduce the amount of rust, rot, mold and mildew that may develop, and lower the likelihood that the water will lead to structural problems.
More information can be found in the IBHS publication, Is Your Home Protected From Water Damage? Request a free single copy by calling toll-free 1 (866) 657-IBHS (4247). The publication can also be read or requested via the IBHS web site, www.disastersafety.org.
IBHS is a national nonprofit initiative of the insurance industry to reduce deaths, injuries, property damage, economic losses and human suffering caused by natural disasters.
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