Water Damage Cleanup Tips

water damage cleanup mansfieldDo you know what you would do if your home or business in Mansfield sustains water damage? Knowing what to do, what hazards you should be aware of, and who to call for water damage cleanup can help you prevent additional damage to your property and your belongings. Water damage will continue to cause damage until it is extracted and the area is dry, so prompt action is key to reducing damages.

How to Prepare for Water Damage

Knowing what to do and who to call in the event of water damage can result in reducing your damages. Taking a few steps now in anticipation of a water damage emergency can help prevent a bad situation from getting worse. Do your research ahead of time and create a list of preferred restoration service providers in Mansfield, and keep this information in a safe place.

You should also make sure that you know where the water shutoff is located, as well as how to shut off the electrical and gas lines to your home. If you water damage is caused by a broken water line or plumbing problem, you’ll definitely want to know how to shut off the water main to prevent additional flooding.

Safety Tips for Entering a Flooded Building

If your Mansfield property has been flooded, use extreme caution when entering the building for the first time. You should only enter a flooded building if it is safe to do so. Be aware of potential structural damage, furniture that has moved or toppled over, or that may be at risk of toppling over.

You should always shut off electricity to the entire building before entering the home. Do not try to use lights, electrical outlets, or appliances that may have suffered water damage.

Floodwaters can be contaminated with harmful bacteria or pathogens, and you should always take steps to protect your personal health when entering an area for flood damage cleanup. Avoid direct contact with contaminated floodwaters, and use personal protective equipment.

Begin Extracting Water from The Flooded Area

As soon as it is safe to do so, begin extracting water from the affected area. You can attempt this yourself, or you can hire a flood damage cleanup company to remove excess water and dry the property. Mop up water, or use a wet-dry vac if it is safe to do so.

Move items that have not been damaged by flooding to a safe area of the home, and move damp or wet items to another area or outside to dry. A flood cleanup professional can use moisture detectors to identify hidden areas of water in the event water has seeped into walls and beneath floors.

Safety First

Remember that with any instance of flooding, there can be new hazards in your home that you may not expect. Floodwaters can introduce pests and critters or pathogens and bacteria into your home. Furniture can move or be hidden beneath floodwaters, making it difficult to navigate throughout your home until floodwaters recede.

Always be aware of the possibility of electrical shock or gas leaks, and only enter an area after you know it is safe to do so. If you are not able or unsure about flood cleanup, contact RestorePro for water damage cleanup. Our professional technicians will remove the water and dry your home, ensuring it is safe and healthy for you and your family.