One of the most powerful storms to hit Florida in recent memory has left behind enormous destruction. However, government authorities advise individuals who were forced from their houses by Hurricane Ian to exercise caution when they do so.
First off, according to specialists at the American Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you should always assume there is a chance that there are power or gas leaks. Use battery-powered flashlights or lanterns instead of candles, gas lanterns, or torches while returning during the day, so you don’t need to switch on any lights.
Even if it means delaying the start of cleanup, switch off the main electricity to the house if there is standing water, and you can do so from a dry area. Call an electrician to turn off the main power switch instead if doing so would require walking through the water. You can opt for professional repair options a well.
Experts advise against using an electric instrument or appliance or turning on or off the power while standing in water. Smell the air as you go in. We suggests turning off the main gas valve and opening all windows before leaving your home as fast as you can if you smell gas or think there may be a leak. Avoid switching on the lights or doing anything that can set off a spark.
If you suspect a leak, alert the gas company or emergency personnel. Once you’ve been assured it’s safe to return inside, do so. Even if there are no power issues, you should only enter for a moment to unlock doors and windows at first. It’s crucial to give the house at least a half-hour of airing, especially if it has been sealed up for several days.
Safely operate a generator
Without first speaking to your power provider, avoid connecting a generator to your home’s electrical system. The generator must have authorized automatic-interrupt mechanisms because if it is still running when electrical power is restored, it might pose a serious fire risk. Line workers assisting in power restoration for everyone may also be put in danger by the inappropriate connection of a generator to your home’s electrical circuits.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, position the generator outside and at least 20 feet away from any door, window, or vent if you need to use a generator to power your equipment while there is no electricity. When working with electrical equipment in damp environments, be careful to wear rubber boots.
Before turning on your air conditioning, get your system checked by an expert in HVAC cleaning; otherwise, you risk spreading mold throughout the house. Mold will be removed by a professional cleaner, which will also stop future mold formation.
Mold risks
If a house has been flooded and sealed off for days, it is safe to assume that mold is present. As soon as you can, dry the home. After removing any standing water with a wet-dry vacuum or water pump, use fans and dehumidifiers to get rid of any extra moisture. To stop mold from spreading throughout the house, fans should be installed.
Water and food
Also, keep in mind that a flooded residence can contain sewage contamination. Get water from a private well tested before using it, and pay attention to local advice on whether drinking public water is safe. It is safe to consume, cook with, and use treated or boiling water for personal hygiene.
Discard any food that may have come into touch with floodwater, as well as perishables that weren’t stored correctly in the refrigerator. Unsafe food can still get you ill even if it seems, smells, and tastes fine. When in doubt, discard it.
