Health Considerations After Flooding

11/22/2017 (Permalink)

A downed tree after a storm

What should I be worried about when going into my home after it's been flooded?

1. Make sure the power is off to the home to avoid electric shock. The electricity could be running through the standing water.
2. Be on the lookout for poisonous snakes, rats, and even stray pets. The animals will try and find a dry place and it might be your home.
3. Flood water is considered "black water" or "Category 3 water" due to the contamination it might carry. Backed up sewers, machine oils, and chemicals might be in the standing water in your home. Do not go in your home without proper protection.
4. Wet materials are more pliable and could break under the strain of a person. Be careful walking on saturated floors.