Debris-covered streets, flooded basements, and downed power lines are just some of the problems that many people experience following a natural catastrophe. Natural catastrophe preparations are one thing; dealing with the aftermath is a whole other ball game itself. When it comes to cleaning up after their homes, homeowners need to exercise extreme caution. Of course, there are steps you can take to minimize the damage, such as putting in storm shutters and impact windows, but here, we look at how to clean any damage.
Wait till the severe weather has totally passed before continuing.
You never know if severe weather may continue to roll through after a tornado touchdown or a powerful storm front has passed through an area; thus, it is best to wait until circumstances have eased before beginning the cleanup effort, despite the fact that you may want to get a head start on it.
Understanding and preventing possible threats
You will not be able to identify whether or not a power line that has fallen and become grounded is still electrified just by looking at it. Because of this, you should stay away from downed electrical wires and never touch them. Instead, contact the appropriate authorities if you come across them.
When you consider the conditions you are in, cleaning up after a natural catastrophe may be a very hazardous endeavor. Before undertaking any sort of cleanup, it is strongly recommended that you conduct a risk assessment to determine what kinds of dangers you could be exposed to.
Do not venture into the area if it appears to be both hazardous and run-down. This is a good general rule to follow. Before beginning any kind of cleanup, you should be sure to get in touch with your local authorities to find out what the most effective next actions are. Buildings with ripped roofs, walls, or other major damage might pose a danger of potential injury. In order to determine whether or not your house is safe to enter, you might need the assistance of a qualified inspector or another local authority.
There is an increased potential for danger in any rooms in the house that are flooded. Floodwater may include harmful bacteria that have been released into the environment as a result of sewage or other types of wastewater overflowing, and it may also pose a threat if it comes into touch with electrical or gas appliances.
If you are having flooding in your house, you should make sure that the power and gas lines in your home are turned off before beginning any sort of cleanup, provided that it is safe to do so. In the event that you are unable to access these shut-off valves as a result of the floodwater, give a 24-hour plumbing emergency service a call for assistance. Traversing the water on your own might be hazardous.
Stay safe indoors
Be on the watch for damage that may not be immediately apparent after a severe storm has passed through an area. If you suspect any kind of damage at all, you should immediately turn off the electrical power, gas (if you have it), and propane tanks in your home in order to prevent any potential fires, explosions, or electrocutions.
If you are permitted to enter your house, make it a point to inspect it for any other potential dangers, such as frayed wiring, sparks, or the scent of something burning of any kind. In the event that you discover this, you should immediately turn off the electrical system. Turn off the main gas valve if you smell something that smells suspiciously like gas. This might be an indication that there is a gas leak. In either scenario, it is imperative that you leave the house as soon as possible, and you should not go back inside until the local authorities give you the all-clear to do so.
