Hurricane Damage Repair03 Aug
Even after the storm ends, physical and mental health problems still linger after returning to a hurricane-damaged home.
Floods left behind by hurricanes can contain raw sewage that contains domestic and industrial chemicals, and other hazardous substances. These substances may be present in standing water, household wells, or objects that have been submerged in the water. Exposure to these toxins can cause stomach upset, intestinal problems, rashes, wound infections, tetanus, or flu-like symptoms. If you come into contact with floodwater or contaminated objects, you should wash them with soap and water, or an alcohol-based disinfectant as quickly as possible. Discard food, drinks, and prescription drugs immediately, and wash clothes in hot, soapy water. In addition, floodwater may hide sharp metal or glass, submerged wires, or strong currents, so be careful when beginning the cleaning process.
Some individuals may experience serious health and safety hazards when they return to their home, including the risk of electric shock from downed power lines, and carbon monoxide poisoning from generators. There is also a risk of injuries from falling objects, power tools, or excessive force while cleaning waterlogged furniture. In addition, people with chronic conditions such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes may find that their conditions are exacerbated by the excessive physical activity that comes along with cleaning up after a storm. Moreover, mold may begin to grow in damp areas, triggering serious respiratory conditions including asthma and allergies.
Here are a few tips that can reduce mold growth in your home after a hurricane or storm:
1.Clean the home regularly.
2.Fix any leaks as soon as possible.
3.Open windows and deploy fans to ventilate.
4.Close your windows at night to keep out mold spores.
5.Use a dehumidifier in damp areas around your home.
6.Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters to capture pollutants in the air, and be sure to change the filters frequently.
7.Ensure that the drainpipe is running properly.
8.Clean the ditch regularly.
9.Dry overflow water in your home.
10.Pay attention to the signs of mold growth, and discard and replace any items that show signs of mold.
11.Avoid carpeting in bathrooms, kitchens, or unfinished basements, and replace carpeting with boards.
12.Let the wall surface dry thoroughly before painting.
13.Apply mildew-proof paint to the walls.
Post-hurricane repair is an enormous undertaking, so taking it one step at a time is key to avoiding overwhelm. Find a team of professionals to assist you, so you can focus on what matters most. Call Uni-P Dry to help with your restoration project – together, we will rebuild your home!