Floods can occur without advance warning for homeowners regardless of location. You do not have to live in a flood zone to experience flood damage. Most homeowners are unprepared for the flooding event as well as the dangers still present after the water subsides. Dangerous mold can create health hazards for residents, and professional abatement is necessary to prevent illness and injury to homeowners.
What are the dangers of mold in a home after flooding? Exposure to mold can cause all sorts of health problems including asthma, allergic reactions, skin and eye irritations and severe infections, especially for elderly residents with weakened immune systems.
Anyone returning to a home after a flooding event should wear protective equipment covering the eyes, mouth, nose and skin. Any standing water should be removed, and water should be vacuumed out to dry the home’s interior as quickly as possible.
Open doors, windows, closets and any interior rooms to increase air flow. Open cabinets and remove drawers, cleaning all areas carefully and wiping them dry. If you have electricity, the use of a humidifier can speed up the drying process. Any items that cannot be dried or cleaned should be thrown away.
If mold does develop in a home after a flooding event, it may be necessary to contact a mold abatement contractor who has professional training in inspecting and cleaning mold-infested homes. They have treatments and equipment to restore the damaged parts of a home. Mold abatement is best left to a professional environmental contractor with training to deal with the specific hazards mold presents.
Do you have environmental contractor clients involved in fire/water restoration and mold remediation services? Our environmental contractors and consultants insurance program offers liability protection to cover their unique risks. Coverage is available with limits up to $11 million. Contact us for more information.
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