The First 24 Hours After the Flood

After the water subsides & home access is restored…

Here’s information for what to know when returning to your home.  Stay safe.

1.  SAFETY FIRST!

• Check for structural damage before entering your home. Have a working flashlight. Disconnect water & electricity – even it it’s “off”. Don’t want to risk mixing water & electricity. Wear gloves and boots. Know there may be nasty chemicals lurking in standing water.

2.  CONTACT INSURANCE

• In addition to contacting your insurance carrier, contact FEMA. Start a claim and inquire about what possible relief may be available to you.

3.  DOCUMENT DAMAGE

• Take photos of any floodwater in your home. Takes pic of each room affected by water from 4 or more angles. Get shots of personal items damaged as well.

4.  DRY IT OUT

• Remove wet carpet and pads – remove wet wall insulation – open doors and windows to ventilate the space – open doors, drawers, and cabinets – use fans and run dehumidifiers – remove appliances that were submersed

5.  CLEAN & DISINFECT

• Mud left from flood waters can contain sewage and harmful chemicals. Toss any item that cannot be disinfected.

Here’s an excellent Red Cross “returning home” checklist to share with friends and family following our unprecedented 500 year flood in South Louisiana.

• http://www.redcross.org/…/m14240163_ReturningHomeChecklist.…