Flood Damage: What You Need to Know

9/14/2016 (Permalink)

Microbes cultivate in dirty water.

Homeowners often underestimate flood damage.  Not only can flood damage cause structural damage, but it can leave biological organisms that can cause health effects.  SERVPRO can handle any situation of water damage.  As an example back in February SERVPRO of Carol Stream/East Bloomingdale went to Saint Louis in order to help 13 families recover after a severe flood caused extensive water damage to their homes. 

Dirty Water

Dirty water causes the worst damage.  It can possess anything from animal feces to chemical residues.  Fungi, bacteria, and viruses use dirty water to cultivate.  The cultivation of these microbes can cause severe negative health effects.

What to do

• Remove excess water by mopping and blotting.
• Remove and prop wet upholstery and cushions.
• Remove rugs from wet carpeting.
• Gather loose items from floors.

What not to do

• Do not use television or other household appliances.
• Do not leave wet fabrics in place. Hang furs and leather goods.
• Do not leave books, magazines, or other colored items on wet carpet and floors.
• Do not use a household vacuum to remove water.

For more information, refer to our SERVPRO website.