What Should You Not Do After a House Floods?

Floodwater can hide serious hazards. Do not walk into a flooded basement or room until you know the water is safe. Standing water may carry sewage, chemicals, or sharp debris. If you must enter, wear rubber boots and gloves, and use a flashlight to check for hazards.

If the water level is high or rising, stay out. Turn off the main power only if you can do so without standing in water. If you are unsure, wait for a professional to handle it. Your safety comes first, and the pros can assess the situation properly.

Removing water fast is important, but doing it wrong can cause more damage. Do not pump out a flooded basement all at once if the ground outside is still saturated. The pressure from outside water can crack walls or make the floor buckle. Pump out a few feet at a time and wait to see if water returns.

Do not use a regular pump or siphon without knowing the water source. If the flood came from a broken pipe, you can drain it, but if it came from outside, be careful. The pros have the right equipment to remove water safely and prevent structural harm. They can also dry out the space properly.

• Do not use a shop vac on large amounts of water.
• Do not start a generator indoors or near windows.
• Do not use heaters or fans until you check for gas leaks.
• Do not remove water from a crawl space without ventilation.
• Do not ignore standing water under flooring or insulation.

Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours after a flood. Do not wait to start drying your home. Open windows if the outside air is dry, and run fans or dehumidifiers once it is safe to use electricity. Remove wet carpets, rugs, and padding that cannot be cleaned.

Do not leave wet insulation in walls or attics. It holds moisture and can lead to rot and mold. If you live in Newark, keep a list of local water damage pros handy so you can call for help quickly. The sooner you dry things out, the less damage you will face.

• Do not leave wet books or papers in a pile.
• Do not cover wet surfaces with plastic or tarps.
• Do not use a regular household fan if water may be in outlets.
• Do not ignore musty smells after the water recedes.
• Do not postpone calling a mold professional if you see growth.
• Do not paint over water stains until the wall is fully dry.