Flood Cleanup Safety Observances

Flood cleanup is a strenuous task, considering the things that you might have gone through during the calamity itself. In the aftermath of a flood, you will face a number of dangerous situations that will certainly create a number of complications, possibly adding more items to your truckload of burdens (though hiring professional help will lighten the load). With that said, there are a number of ways that you can do to avoid such situations, including safety and precautionary measures, proper cleaning observances and gearing up and using the proper equipment. Let's cut to the chase and check them out:

Electricity and Gas Safety

One of the dangers of flood cleanup includes volatile electric wires and gas pipes. Given that most circuit breakers are located in the basement (which is the first part of the house that is flooded), a majority of people who have gone through the ordeal might not have though of turning it off. Those who do are generally safe, but the chances of being electrocuted may still exist. Remember, DURING floods, turning off the main electrical switch and the gas valves should be the first thing that you should do. Aside from which, here are some things you should take note of:

• If the gas valve and propane gas containers have not been shut down during flood or if your house smells like gas, open all the doors and windows, leave your home and call the proper authorities.

• As a precautionary measure, only use battery-powered sources of light like flashlights. Never use candles, lighters or anything that may cause a spark.

• If you failed to turn your main switch off, contact your local power company or an electrician to inspect the wires.

• After you have cleaned up, make sure each electrical appliance, plug, circuit and wiring is completely dry and checked by the PROPER AUTHORITIES before resuming use. 

• Lastly, avoid sources of water near downed power lines and exposed electrical wires. It could mean the difference between life and death.

Safety from mud, debris and bacteria

During flood cleanup, being in contact with flood waters means getting close and personal with the microorganisms present in water. This also means exposing yourself to dirt, sewer water and debris, which could cause injuries. With that said, here are some safety measures that you should really take note of:

• Do not only safeguard yourself. Never let children, pets or people experiencing medical conditions near the flood waters as it may cause a number of complications.

• If you can get hold of a hazmat suit, then great. However, water proof suits and rubber boots would suffice. Broken glass and other sharp objects would not be able to penetrate the soles, guaranteeing optimum foot protection.

• Lastly, personal hygiene should still be observed. Wear fresh clothes after every cleanup. Also remember to take a bath more than usual; bacteria and other microorganisms will definitely cause complications if left unwashed.

We may be prepared to face floods but we may be clueless of what happens after it; safety during flood cleanup is an utmost priority. However, if the task is too much to handle, avail the help of professional services in order to have assistance and for it to be done properly – and with little complications at that.