While you may want to go solo with the cleanup, it is important to understand the severe risk you will be taking. When large amounts of water infiltrate a home, much of the resulting damage is not visible.
Hidden Water Damage
Water will seep into foundation cracks, soak drywall and insulation, remain in carpet padding, and in each case, can lead to structural damage while propagating the growth of mold and mildew.
Water Damage Restoration Professionals
Calling in water removal professionals will allow the use of state of the art instrumentation, tools and drying equipment, providing quality service.
Depending on the type and severity of the flood, it would be prudent to relocate until the water removal, restoration, and sanitation processes have been completed.
Evacuation Kit and Checklist
Being prepared for an emergency goes beyond knowing how to respond to it. Having an evacuation kit ready to go at all times (with a checklist) will help you when it’s time to go. The contents of your evacuation kit should include:
- Several changes of clothes (per person)
- Flashlights
- Certified copies of personal documentation
- Certified copies of deeds, titles, wills, etc.
- Spare keys (safe deposit, vehicle, etc.)
- Emergency contacts and phone numbers
- Copies of insurance information and phone numbers
- Spare chargers for cell phones, tablets, and computers
- Books/Toys to keep everyone occupied
- A checklist of easy to grab valuables and essential items for you and your family