Be Aware of Flooding

9/6/2019 (Permalink)

Even though the hurricanes are not touching down on land the rain the hurricane can bring should be watched because it can lead to flooding. Every community should at least be aware of flood dangers and be prepared for them because you never know when flooding may occur.

Additionally, the dangers of floods do not disappear after water levels stop rising. Here are five factors to remember when recovering from a flood.

1. Be wary of damaged utilities

Water may have damaged electrical power and natural gas or propane, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports. Minimize any fire hazards by turning off these utilities, especially if an odor, fraying wiring or sparks are present. Only turn the power on or off if you can do so from a dry location. Otherwise, call an electrician.

Contact the proper authorities, such as the gas or electric company, the police department or the fire department to help determine when turning utilities back on is safe.

2. Protect yourself against carbon monoxide

Generators, pressure washers, charcoal grills and other fuel-burning tools can release CO, which can collect in dangerous concentrations when used indoors or near open doors, windows or air vents.

The CDC recommends avoiding use of these in enclosed or partially enclosed areas, and encourages people to buy battery-powered carbon monoxide detectors. These should be placed outside all sleeping areas and, for added protection, near a home's heat source.

3. Minimize contact with dirty water

Remaining floodwater can also pose various hazards. It may be mixed with sewage or other hazardous substances, like chemicals, or it could be hiding downed power lines or sharp objects.

Dry out homes as soon as possible and thoroughly wash and disinfect clothes, linens and hard surfaces. Discard anything that cannot be cleaned -- this includes contaminated drywall and insulation.

4. Control Mold

Mold can also be a major issue if it is not addressed after a flood.

Mold can dry out, but the dried spores can still pose a risk if they enter the air. Proper cleanup is essential after a flood.

5. Avoid traveling through flood water

Never enter swiftly flowing water, and do not try to drive or walk through standing water because underneath the road could be compromised or blocked by debris.

When it comes to moving water, obviously you should try to get to high ground and get away from flooding whenever possible. Don't put yourself into moving water. If you have standing water, you certainly don't want to drive or walk through that either if you can't see to the bottom of it.