Hurricanes are defined as low-pressure systems with organized thunderstorm activity that take shape over tropical or subtropical waters. As they derive energy from warm ocean waters, they are called tropical cyclones. Hurricanes are powerful storms that bring about strong winds, storm surge flooding, and heavy rainfall. They can lead to inland flooding, rip currents, and tornadoes.
Hurricanes can result in property damage. They lead to loss of life due to the storm surges and inland flooding they cause. Suncoast Contractors Emergency Service Inc. specializes in electric and electric panels, home automation and security, fire, flood, and mold repair, and general construction services. In this article Suncoast shares, some precautions that can be taken by property owners after a home is flooded by a hurricane.
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Precautions That Should Be Taken In Homes Flooded After Hurricanes
- Family can be contacted to inform them of the safety and whereabouts of the affected people.
- If assistance is needed, local agencies or FEMA can be approached.
- In case the affected homeowners have a flood insurance policy the insurance company or agent must be informed.
- Inhabitants of a flooded property must avoid any contact with floodwater. Floodwater is considered to be contaminated. Depending on the location there can be debris or living things in the floodwater that make it more harmful. When a professional flood restoration service is handling flood damage, they use personal protective equipment and are trained to handle floodwater safely.
- Flood damage must be documented as much as possible. Taking photographs will help keep a record that will help with the flood insurance claim process. Personnel from the flood restoration service also inspect the property and document the damage.
- Electricity supply to flooded areas must be switched off as there is a risk of electrocution and electric fires. But in case the main switch is in a flooded area that is unsafe to access, a professional electrician must be brought to turn it off or the utility company may be able to help. The use of all electrical appliances that were in contact with water must be avoided to prevent accidents. Until it is safe, initially battery-powered lights should be used instead of electric lights. The utility company must be informed of any broken or fallen power lines.
- Any hissing sound or smell of gas may be an indication of a gas leak. The main valve of the gas should be turned off from outside if possible. Further help can be sought from the gas company.
- Water removal from the basement and crawl space is necessary after a flood to prevent further deterioration of the foundation. Flood restoration services like Suncoast Contractors Emergency Service Inc. in Delray Beach have personnel with training and specialized equipment for efficient water removal.
- Flood restoration service personnel help to identify what belongings in a flood-damaged property can be restored and used, and what needs to be replaced. Certain things like carpet pads or provisions that were exposed to floodwater must be discarded. Caution must be taken to avoid danger and any relevant guidelines must be followed regarding what can be sanitized and used.
- The building must be dried and disinfected after flood damage before it can be safely inhabited. The sooner this is done the better, as it avoids exposure to contaminants in floodwater and prevents mold growth. To limit damage and save costs, a flood restoration service that works quickly and thoroughly is helpful.
- The wind during hurricanes causes trees, their branches, and shrubs to break and fall. Care must be taken if these have brought electric lines down. If they are causing or have caused roof damage that must be identified and rectified to limit damage to the interiors of the building. People must be cautious of falling objects or debris floating in floodwater that can cause injuries.
- People living in areas prone to hurricanes must access reliable resources on how to prepare for and act in case of flooding after a hurricane.
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In Florida, Suncoast Contractors Emergency Service Inc. offers flood restoration services in areas including Delray Beach. Being a company that does residential contracting, commercial contracting, and restoration work, Suncoast Contractors Emergency Service Inc. can handle all the intricacies of flood damage restoration work. This industry expert can be contacted for flood restoration services in areas of Florida, like Delray Beach by calling them on the number (561) 316-3989.
