IBHS News Releases

Tampa - As the Carolinas and Virginia start cleaning up from Gaston, the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) has tips to help minimize the potential damage caused by flooding.

As soon as it’s safe to enter damaged areas:

• 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. 

Visit the Water & Mold section of this site to view the online “Water Damage Recovery Guide,” which has detailed cleanup instructions.  For help preparing homes for future tropical threats, visit the Hurricane section of this site.  Request free single copies of any IBHS publication online, or by calling toll free (866) 657-IBHS (4247).