SERVPRO suggests immediate steps to check water and mold damage after a storm

5/12/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: Discussing the emergency tips that one needs to follow to combat water and mold damage after a storm and the need for professional help to restore a house to its original state

Emergency tips for water and mold damage

Storms can wreak havoc on daily life and cause serious damage to homes and commercial properties. They are accompanied by water as well as mold damage. Specialized equipment and techniques are required to restore properties to their original glory. 

To contain the damage caused by water and mold, professional water restoration companies such as SERVPRO must be contacted to ensure safety and hygiene. Until professional help arrives, here are some emergency tips for water and mold damage control.

Water damage

Flooding and water damage after a storm needs attention within the first 24 hours. SERVPRO suggests the following actions to mitigate water damage:

1. Click pictures: First and foremost, click pictures of the damage caused by the storm. This digital record of the premises is imperative for any insurance claims and to avoid any hassles at a later date.
2. Dry it up: Move accessories from floor and table-tops and mop or blot excess water from floors, furniture, and upholstery. Leave the windows open and allow fresh air to circulate. Carpets must be dried within the first two days.
3. Spot structural damage: Watch out for buckled walls, floors, and ceilings as well as any glass or other dangerous debris on the floor. Stay away from these structural damages until professional help arrives. 
4. Steer clear of electricity: Do not use any electric or heating appliances that were submerged in water until they have been checked by the local utility. This ensures there are no surprise shocks. 
5. Protect furniture and furnishings: Place aluminum foil or wood blocks between furniture legs and wet carpeting. Remove wet and/or colored rugs from wet carpeting.
6. Safeguard expensive art: Move expensive art pieces and other precious items to a dry and safe place until the damage is reversed.
7. Maintain hygiene: Floodwater is a concoction of dangerous chemicals, human and livestock waste, germs, and other contaminants that can cause effects to health. So it is imperative to maintain hygiene by washing hands with soap and/or using alcohol-based wipes or sanitizers. 

Mold damage 

Mold damage usually accompanies storms and flooding since it thrives on moisture. These spores can multiply swiftly, causing health effects, leading to structural damage and ruining belongings. If mold is suspected, a professional mold remediation company such as SERVPRO must be contacted for successful mold removal. Here are some emergency tips to manage mold until then: 

1. Avoid the fungus: Stay away from the mold to avoid any health effects that stem from exposure to mold spore exposure. 
2. Do not attempt removal: Do not touch, blow air on, attempt to dry, or spray any disinfectants on the fungus. The mold removal must be done by a professional, mold remediation company.
3. Switch off the HVAC: Turn off the HVAC system and fans to halt further dispersal of the spores. 

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County is always updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, or anywhere else can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill-upgradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For water cleanup and mold removal, call SERVPRO® of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County today at (817) 595-2506 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com