Tips to follow in the immediate aftermath of a flood

Hopefully you are one of the lucky ones who have not been impacted by flooding this spring. For those who were not as fortunate, you are left to deal with the emotional trauma and a variety of cleanup issues.

As flood waters decrease, many dangers are left behind. Homes, buildings, possessions, and roadways may be destroyed, and flood waters are often contaminated with things that could be detrimental to health and safety.

The following are helpful tips on what to do after a flood. Some of this may sound familiar if you have been following our previous blogs, “Be prepared for spring flooding” and “Be prepared for spring flooding – part2”), but it is worth repeating. 

• Stay informed. Listen to your local news to keep up to date on conditions. If your area was evacuated, do not return until authorities have declared it safe to do so.
• Avoid flood waters as they may be contaminated by toxic chemicals, debris, sharp objects, power lines, sewage, and other substances.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them to the local electrical company.
• Avoid standing water as it may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
• Do not attempt to drive through areas that are still flooded. Pay attention to road closures and cautionary signs. Roadways may be collapsed underneath the flood waters.
• Ensure buildings are structurally safe before entering. Look for warping, loosened or cracked foundation elements, cracks, holes, and damage to the walls and floors. Stay out of any building that is surrounded by flood waters.
• Record details of damage. Before removing any water or making repairs, document the damage for your insurer by taking photos and/or videos.
• Report damage to your insurance. Notify your insurer as soon as possible; they will need to know the state of your property and any repairs you intend to do right away.
• Maintain good hygiene during flood cleanup. Use proper personal protective equipment such as rubber gloves, masks, heavy boots, and protective clothing. Wash your hands with soap and water if you come into contact with flood water or materials which have been potentially contaminated by flood water.   
• Practice safe cleaning. Remove and throw out anything that was contaminated with flood water or sewage, such as drywall and insulation. Throw away items that cannot be washed or cleaned with bleach, such as mattresses, pillows, and carpet. 
• Avoid drinking water and eating contaminated food. Do not drink tap water until authorities say it is safe. Drink bottled water if it was not contaminated by flood water. Throw away any food that may have come into contact with flood water.

Submitted by: LMCIT Loss Control