According to remediation and hubzone certification experts, the Micah group, basements are perhaps the area in all of our homes that is the most prone to flooding. Due to the basement’s location, it is but natural why it would be the very first affected. Hubzone certification is only one service that the Micah group offers, but they are most called in for remediation of flooded basements. When a basement is flooded, it is necessary to restore the damage. The clean-up can be performed by either a homeowner or remediation professionals, like the Micah group. However, it is recommended for an expert to do it. Homeowners may not be familiar with the warning signs that show that the water damage may be too dangerous for an ordinary homeowner to handle. What are these warning signs that all of us should familiarize ourselves with? Remediation experts tell us today:
1. The first thing that professionals or even homeowners should look out for is the scent of gas or other chemicals. If even the slightest smell is detected, everyone living in the home should get out of their property as soon as possible. The smell of gas may signify a gas leak, which is a fire hazard. If this is the case, the homeowner should inform the gas company right away. Call through a neighbor’s house or a mobile. In the case of chemicals, ordinary household chemicals can create poisonous fumes when mixed together. For example, ammonia with chlorine bleach can be very toxic when mixed.
2. The next thing to look out for is electric outlets which may have been submerged in the flood. Appliances that could still be plugged in are also equally dangerous. One of these can shock anyone who ventures into the basement, or give them a serious case of electrocution. If appliances or plugs are left in a flooded basement, no member of the home should go down there. Instead, the best thing to do is to call the electrical company and request for the electricity to be shut off in your home.
3. Lastly, there is then the danger of molds. Molds develop indoors as long as they find moisture present. While some molds are harmless, other varieties, such as black mold, can be dangerous andhazardous to human health. Homeowners should not take it on themselves to get rid of these molds. It is better for experts with the right equipment to handle the job.
When your basement floods, it can be very tempting to go right in and save as many items as possible. However, it is best to consider your safety and the safety of your family before anything else. Unless you are 100% sure it is safe, do not go down the basement, and let the experts take care of the problem!