If you’re living in a flood-ravaged area, your best action is to protect your health. Flooded homes present big health hazards and can pose serious health risks. Often, they are contaminated with sewage and pesticides, which can affect your physical and mental health.
In this blog, we’ll tell you how you can avoid flood-related health hazards at home and what to do if you have been exposed to a hazardous environment while away or in search of relief.
Have You Had Water Damage?
There is little time left. Property damage and loss caused by leaking water need fast action. You are postponing the inevitable unless your items are completely dry. Contact the compassionate professionals at Reztor Restoration to ensure a quick resolution.
What To Do If You’re At Home With A Flood
If you’re at home in a flood-prone area and it’s been confirmed that your home has sustained some damage, the first thing to do is call your insurance company. Tell them what damage has been done and that you want to file a claim. Getting in touch with your insurance company as soon as possible is the key.
The more information you give, the sooner you can get proper help for yourself and other loved ones. Once you’ve reported the flood damage to your insurance company, pay attention to updates.
Another thing you can do is check the area around your home for hidden damage. Sometimes, even if it doesn’t appear that there’s been too much damage on the surface, water can cause more serious problems like mould growth or structural issues.
Detecting your home’s musty smell or excessive moisture can signify hidden flood damage. There may be water in the walls or inside your home’s foundation, so you should get a professional building inspector to check it out.
To minimise the risk of mould growth in your home after flooding, you should open your doors and windows and let air circulate through your home. It will help to prevent dampness and any remaining water from getting trapped inside.
Tips for Preventing Property Flood Damage
Your home or company is impervious to flood damage. Flood damage is one of the most prevalent and costly risks in Australia, according to Reztor Restoration experts. Never underestimate the power of water.
Here are some prevention techniques to keep water damage at bay.
All of your windows and doors are in working condition. These should be weatherproof, easy to operate and have a tight seal. If seals deteriorate over time, chances are they’ll let water through. Storm windows that seal tightly and can withstand flooding. If you have glass doors, make sure they’re bolted or locked shut so they don’t open in the event of a flood.
Prepare For Flood Damage
It is a wise idea to clear the house of all your stuff. You want to keep all documents and irreplaceable artwork if your house floods. Furniture is also particularly susceptible to water damage, so you should be especially careful with old furniture that has been sitting in high-water areas for years or decades.
If you need to protect your basement, store your belongings in a waterproof container or rack and place them on top of the floor joists. If the basement is flooded, the highest point you can find will be the cleanest and dryer.
Establish an emergency kit with all the supplies necessary for your and your family’s safety. Include batteries, water purification tablets, and gas masks if pollutants spill into rivers or sewers.
Emotional Distress.
Flood victims may suffer anxiety, depression, fear, wrath, frustration, sadness, and grief due to their predicament. These symptoms can disrupt relationships, make it difficult to sleep, and reduce appetite, among other things. That is why the Red Cross responds to flood-related disasters and keeps mental health professionals on hand.
The most effective way to cope with emotional distress is by talking about it. Seek support from friends, family members, and counsellors to help.
Flooded Homes Pose A Health Risk
Flooded homes are often associated with sewage, pesticides, and other chemicals that can affect your health. If you’re in a flooded home, stay out of the building where possible. If forced, spend time in places with poor ventilation.
Ask your doctor if there are any other health risks associated with the water in your home if it has been there for a long time. Long-term water storage increases the risk of pollutants being released into the air or groundwater.
Damage to property
Water damage accounts for 90% of all natural catastrophe damage. Homes, companies, automobiles, personal belongings, and equipment. Nothing is safe.
To get help for flood-related issues, call Reztor Restoration on 1800 739 867 to speak to a flood expert. They have the knowledge and resources to get your life back on track faster than you can imagine.
