Health Issues to Watch Out for After You Experience Flooding
There have been five major flooding events in Louisiana since the 1900s, but flooding is not an uncommon event in the state. Hurricane season presents heavy rain that causes flooding in towns and cities all over Louisiana, and that flooding causes health concerns. If left untreated, all of the following issues could snowball into major health concerns for residents.
Contaminated Water
Flooding can cause water contaminated with sewage, chemical waste, bacteria, and viruses to enter your home, putting you and your fellow residents at risk. These toxins can cause lung infections when released into the air. They can also lead to skin and wound infections.
The best way to make sure you run as little risk as possible is to stay out of floodwater, especially if you do not have protective equipment. If your home does flood, it should be dried out as soon as possible. Be sure to call a reliable water damage restoration team that is properly equipped to handle contaminated water.
[Related: Advantages of Using a Quality Mold Remediation Contractor]
Electrical Hazards
Downed powerlines pose one of the biggest threats in floodwater. Power cord connections and exposed live wires that have been submerged in water should be treated as if they are energized. If you have time to prepare before a flood, turn off your main breaker. This will reduce your risk of coming home after a flood to electrically-charged water, which reduces your risk of electrocution. Again, you must stay out of the floodwater to the best of your ability, and call a water or flood damage restoration company trained to deal with live standing water.
[Related: How to Handle Recurring Water Damage in Homes]
Mold Infestation
Mold can cause serious health problems after a flood. It transfers easily between surfaces, and residents that are immunocompromised are at higher risk for adverse health effects. Mold attacks the respiratory system, so if you are experiencing nose and throat irritation, coughing, or wheezing after a flood, then you may have a mold infestation. During a flood, mold growth runs rampant because dampness in walls, carpet, and wood creates the perfect environment for it to flourish.
[Related: How Mold Inspections Work]
It is crucial to have your home properly dried to get rid of mold growth after a flood to limit the health hazard it presents. Some objects in your home can be cleaned, but appliances that were submerged should be thrown out. A water damage restoration company can determine what to demolish and what parts of your home can be repaired after a mold infestation.
All of these health hazards can be removed by hiring the right water damage restoration company. Choosing that company can be the difference between dealing with long-lasting adverse health effects or living risk and worry-free in your home.
At CLEAR Restoration, our experts will deal with any and all effects of flooding and water damage in your home. Call CLEAR Restoration at (225) 245-3575 after a flood to restore your home and stay healthy.
