Flooding is terrifying, and both the immediate and long-lasting effects can be stressful to navigate. Within the first 24 hours, it’s crucial to know what to do and how to best respond to prevent further damage to your home. Luckily, there are a few key action steps you can take immediately after a flood to minimize damage and get back to normal as soon as possible.
Things To Do After a Flood in Florida
1. Check For Safety Hazards
From structural damage to electrical hazards, there’s no shortage of potentially harmful situations in a flooded property. Be sure to communicate any hazards you see with others in your home. If you know the water came from a sewer line or you suspect it, ensure everyone avoids attempting to clean it up.
2. Cut Off Power, Gas, and Water
Advise anyone in the flooded home to steer clear of areas near electrical appliances or power outlets. Before entering your home, shut off power, water, and gas lines. If you’re unsure or unable to re-enter your home because the waterline is near a power outlet, call a local electrician.
3. Take Pictures & Collect Documents
It’s not easy looking at property destruction, especially when it’s your home. But photos and videos of the damage can help your eventual insurance claim, which we can handle on your behalf. If possible, collect any important documents like financial statements and government documents that weren’t water damaged.
4. Call a Professional Water Restoration Company
Flood waters are filthy, containing bacteria, sewage, and debris that could reach several parts of your home, including ones you can’t see easily. Your walls, crawlspace, basement, and more can all be damaged by mold following a flood. You’ll need the help of a professional water restoration company to help clean, dry, sanitize and restore your property.
Using advanced water extraction technology, our team can help prevent mold from growing or damaging your property following a flood. To ensure the accuracy and efficiency of our services, our technicians use infrared cameras and other tools throughout the process.
What Appliances Can Be Saved After a Flood in Florida?
In most cases, your large appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers can all make it through a flood. However, you’ll want to clean and sanitize them based on the manufacturer’s instructions and use a bleach-based solution. Call a repair technician for an inspection.
Smaller appliances are unlikely to survive flooding. You’re better off discarding things like toasters, blenders, or similar-sized appliances that handle food. Flood waters are dirty and can get into difficult-to-clean areas of smaller appliances.
DRIRITE® Restoration in the Tampa Bay Area
Now that you know what to do after a flood in Florida, you’ll need to know who you can call in an emergency. For over 40 years, communities in Tampa Bay have trusted DRIRITE® when a flood left their property a mess. Our services are available when you need them—24 hours a day, any day of the week. From the initial call to the day you’re back in your home, our team will keep you updated throughout the process.
Chief Executive Officer
Mike Campbell is a highly experienced professional specializing in structural drying, mold remediation, and environmental consulting. With certifications such as OSHA HAZWOPER, council-certified microbial remediator, and state of Florida licensed mold remediator, he offers tailored solutions to clients at DriRite. With specialized training from the IICRC, Mike is equipped with advanced skills in categories such as applied structural drying, commercial drying, and water damage restoration. This expertise allows him to deliver comprehensive and effective solutions to water-related issues. His dedication to providing exceptional service and expertise makes him a valuable resource in the field.
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