Following a natural disaster such as a flood, you may be faced with a number of tough decisions during flood damage. While some things can be done once the floodwaters recede, like checking for structural damages or saving animals that were trapped in the wreckage, other tasks require more time and effort.
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What happens after a flood?
If you live in a flood-prone area, you know that flooding is a regular occurrence. In fact, about every three years on average, the United States experiences a flood.
Flooding can happen in any area of the country, but it is most common in low-lying areas and along rivers and streams.
When flooding occurs, it causes extensive damage to homes, businesses, and public infrastructure. After a flood, cleanup and restoration efforts can take months or even years.
Many people who live in flood-prone areas have to learn how to handle aftermath of floods. Here are some tips:
1. Make sure you have an evacuation plan. If you are unable to leave your home during a flood, make sure you have an evacuation plan that includes family members and pets. If possible, have an evacuation route ready so you know where to go if flooding occurs.
2. Stay informed. Keep up with news reports about flooding events so you can be aware of any safety updates or evacuations that may be necessary. You can also sign up for Alert Hawaii (www.alerthawaii.com) or the US National Weather Service’s Notify
What to do after a flood
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t think about floods very often- unless there’s one happening in your town or on your property. That’s partly because floods are usually local events that only affect a tiny area. But floods can also be catastrophic, and in the United States alone, they kill more people than any other natural disaster.
Here are some tips on what to do if a flood hits near you:
1. Evacuate immediately if told to do so by emergency officials. If it’s safe to do so, leave all personal belongings behind and head to higher ground. If evacuation is not an option, brace for the worst and protect yourself as best you can.
2. Turn off all electrical equipment and appliances- this includes water pumps and generators- and disconnect them from the power supply. This will stop them from working and may also protect them from being damaged by water or lightning.
3. Secure doorways and windows with sturdy materials such as lumber or metal plates if possible- this will help keep water out in case of flooding inside your home.
4. Warn your neighbors of the potential for flooding and urge them to evacuate if necessary
Cleaning up the mess from flood damage
When a flood happens, it can be difficult to know what to do. The aftermath of a flood can be overwhelming, and it can be hard to know where to start. Here are some tips for cleaning and flood damage restoration .
1. Clean up any water that has been contaminated by chemicals or debris. Clean surfaces with soap and water, then dry them off. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove any debris or large pieces of furniture.
2. Clear away any hazardous materials that were in the flood waters. Remove nails and screws from furniture, sweep up any broken glass, and clean up any oil or gas leaks. Clean all areas where water reached, including under carpets and furniture.
3. Clear away mud and wet debris from outside the house. Sweep up any leaves or branches that have fallen onto the ground, then hose down the area. Pick up any large pieces of wood that have been left on the ground, then stack them nearby so they can be disposed of properly.
4. Dispose of appliances that were damaged in the floodwaters. If there is electricity in the house, turn off all appliances that must be unplugged before cleanup
