RETURNING HOME AFTER A DISASTER

8/7/2017 (Permalink)

Cleaning up after a disaster can be a long and strenuous procedure. Depending on the kind and amount of damage your property sustains, you should seek professional assistance. The professionals at SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo are here to assist you 24/7.

Follow these helpful tips:

• Before going inside, walk carefully around the outside of your home and check for loose power lines, gas leaks and structural damage.
• Do not enter if floodwaters remain around the building.
• If you have any doubts about the safety, have your home inspected by a professional before entering.
• Wear sturdy work boots and gloves. Enter the building carefully and check for damage.
• Watch out for animals.
• Use a stick to poke through debris. Check for cracks in the roof, foundation, and chimneys.
• If it looks like the building may collapse, leave immediately.
• Be aware of loose boards and slippery floors.
• Keep a battery-powered flashlight for lights on hand. Do not use oil, gas lanterns, candles or torches. Leaking gas or other flammable materials may be present. Do not smoke.
• Check for gas leaks, starting at the hot water heater. If you smell gas or hear a hissing or blowing sound, open a window and leave immediately. Turn off the main gas valve from the outside if you can. Call the gas company from a neighbor's house.
• If you shut off the gas supply at the main valve, you will need a professional to turn it back on. Do not turn on the lights until you're sure they are safe to use.
• Check electrical system. If you see sparks, broken or frayed wires, or if you smell hot insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker, even if the power is off in your neighborhood. Do not touch the fuse box, a circuit breaker, or anything else electrical if you are wet or standing in water.
• Check appliances. If they are wet, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker, then unplug the appliances and let them dry out. Have them checked by a professional before using them again.
• Check water and sewage systems. If pipes are damaged, turn off the main water valve. Verify the safety of the water with local authorities before using it. If you have a well, it should be pumped out and the water tested by authorities before drinking.
• Clean up spilled medicines, bleaches and gasoline. Open cabinets carefully. Be aware of objects that may fall.
• Throw out fresh food that has come into contact with floodwaters.
• Check refrigerated food for spoilage. Throw out flooded cosmetics and medicines.
• Call your insurance agent as soon as possible. Take pictures of all damages and keep good records of repair and cleaning costs.
• Call SERVPRO of Marine City/Romeo at 586-336-7373

https://www.stclaircounty.org/Offices/emerg_mngmt/72hours.aspx