Removing Flood Water 101

Here are some of the top preparation tips to consider and complete when it comes to removing flood water.

 

• Wear waterproof boots or waders and gloves.

 

• Invest in a respirator mask to protect against bacteria or mold.

 

• Throw away any food (including canned goods) that have been in contact with flood water.

 

• Disinfect after clearing away remaining water.

 

• Clean and protect any bodily cuts.

 

• Keep children and senior citizens away from flood water.

 

• Bury any fecal matter you discover immediately.

 

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap or sanitizer before eating anything or touching your eyes or mouth.

 

The first step when recovering from a flood is removing any remaining water with a wet/dry vacuum or water pump that is specifically designed to suck up water. Most cities or towns have drainage systems in place, so make sure that the drains in your building are free from debris and that the water in and around your foundation has a clear path to the city sewage systems. Similarly, keep street gutters clear to help water recede quickly.

 

Once all of the standing water has receded or been removed, you can start the drying out process. Have indoor dehumidifiers and fans in the spaces that need drying. It is OK to open up doors and windows to speed the drying process (as long as it isn’t raining).

 

Completely removing all trapped moisture will prevent mold and decay from causing serious problems down the road. You need to remove baseboards, shower trays, and anything that has space beneath or behind it. Remove the mud you find and begin drying these areas immediately. Before replacing the fixtures, make sure those spaces are completely dry.

 

If trapped moisture is allowed to linger, this can compromise a building's structural integrity - which is a high cost to repair. Remember that locked in moisture can cause wood to rot, weakening its ability to hold up the weight of your structure.

 

Mold only needs moisture to grow, and it could grow in areas that are not visible to you. This can, in turn, induce illness, create hazardous living conditions, and severely depreciate the property value.

 

For more information, check with the government agencies listed below:

 

FEMA / OSHA / CDC / ARD

 

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The information contained in this article is for informational, educational, and promotional purposes only and is based on information available as of the initial date of publication. It is the reader’s responsibility to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, rules, codes and regulations. If there is any question or doubt in regard to any element contained in this article, please consult a licensed professional.  Under no circumstances will Global Industrial be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on this article.