Tips from SERVPRO to Reduce Flood Damage and Property Loss

10/4/2022 (Permalink)

When a flood is imminent, and you have time before you need to evacuate, there are different things that you can do to decrease the amount of damage from floodwaters. These should only be done if there is enough time – you should never risk the lives of others or your own, in attempting to act on these tips. 
 
There is not immunity to the effects of flood damage in East Louisville Jefferson County and this harm can include effects caused by increased levels of humidity in the air inside your home. Higher levels of humidity can cause photographs to stick together and also permit mold to start growing on otherwise seemingly mold-free garments, among other things. 
 
SERVPRO can always help undo the damage to your home, but you are in charge of your safety and that of your family. Floods are responsible for thousands of dollars in damage every year, and many deaths, as well. Here are some suggestions that can reduce the damage from a flood. 
  
Move more fragile belongings to a higher level. 
Simply taking items higher, such as electronics, television sets, stereos and speakers, computers, to another floor, or even to the attic, can keep these items from ever being touched by the dirty water that floods are known to bring. 
 
Guard your food. 
Food that is even slightly submerged cannot be consumed. Microbes can settle on indentations in cans and under the rims, posing risks even after food has been cooked correctly. Boxed foods should be placed in a large garbage bag and taken to a higher level to protect the packaging, and the contents, from high humidity levels. 
 
Canned foods should be placed in sturdy boxes and also stashed in a safe location. Pathogens such as e-Coli produce toxins that are not removed or rendered inactive by cooking, making the food dangerous to eat. Food that is refrigerated or frozen might be able to be saved if it can be placed higher-than-normal in the refrigerator, but this is not guaranteed to protect the food, and everything should be examined upon your return before preparing any of the contents. 
 
Open upper floor windows slightly. 
Having windows open a slight amount can allow humidity to escape. During a flood, while it may seem like there is water everywhere and that humidity levels remain the same everywhere, this is not true. Humidity inside your home can become elevated rather quickly. Higher levels of humidity travel to areas of lower levels until an equilibrium is reached. However, do not open windows completely, as this can allow rain to enter, making matters worse. 
 
As you go through your home, have a basket or two to place items in that must go with you when you leave. 

When you evacuate your home, you will most likely need certain things while you are in a shelter or temporarily living with friends or family. These should include important items and anything else you want to protect, such as photo albums. Keys to vehicles and doors, personal identification and other documents, both prescription and non-prescription medications, cell phones, chargers, baby monitors, and few days' worth of changes of clothing for yourself and family members. Personal items and even memorabilia that are located in easy-to-reach areas that do not require any extra time to grab and place in your basket can help ease the stress of having to relocate temporarily. 
 
We at SERVPRO of East Louisville live in the same area as our customers, and we know how damaging floods can be when they affect our homes. We are always here to help your family return home as quickly as possible. Call us at (502) 897-3608, and we can begin working within an hour on restoring your home.