Water Damage Cleanup: Safety First

By Author: ServiceMaster 24/7
Total Articles: 22
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If you have been affected by flooding or water damage in Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Pompano Beach, once the water has subsided it is understandable that you will want to go straight back into your home and try to get things back to normal. However, there could be damage in your property, so before you do anything, follow our safety tips from ServiceMaster 24/7.

Do:
Make sure the property is safe before you enter.
Try to avoid direct contact with any water which remains. It may be contaminated!

Have a flashlight at hand when entering the property.

Switch off the electricity supply at the fuse box, if it is safe to do so. If there is evidence of water inside the fuse box or if there are signs of arcing or overheating, contact ServiceMaster 24/7 immediately.

Unplug damaged electrical appliances and move all portable ones away from the area affected by flooding.

Arrange for other services, such as gas, to be switched off. Electricity and gas supplies should not be turned back on until you have had professional advice that it is safe to do so.

Don’t:
...
... Use candles to guide you when entering the property.
Do not use electric powered appliances in areas affected by flooding until advised by a registered electrician that it is safe to do so.

Avoid any exposed wiring. It may still be live.
Do not start to clean up or carry out repairs until you are sure it is safe to do so.

Cleaning up and making repairs.

Contact your insurance company if applicable, for advice and to get approval to carry out any repairs. Take photos of the damage and keep records. ServiceMaster 24/7 will work directly with your insurance company and is authorized to make all construction and water repairs.

Use the licensed electricians at ServiceMaster 24/7 to assess the condition and damage to electrical wiring, equipment, and appliances that have been affected by the flood.

Do not attempt any electrical repairs or connection of temporary supplies yourself – always use a registered electrician.

Upon discovering water damage, you should make sure you are safe; keep away from all saturated or wet areas, avoid standing in water and then call ServiceMaster 24/7. An experienced IICRC qualified Water Damage Restoration Technician will answer your call and assist you over the phone and dispatch a crew.

At ServiceMaster 24/7 we specialize in restoring the property to as close as possible to its original condition. This includes perishable contents too such as books, documents, photographs, carpets, drapes and curtains, sofas, tables and chairs, and many more. Contact us at 954-969-5906 for faster response or visit https://www.servicemaster247.com/ for more details. Serving businesses and homeowners located in South Florida, Central Florida, Southwest Florida and Southeast Florida.