Recovering From Storm Damage: 3 Things To Keep in Mind

As challenging as flood or storm damage recovery can be, you’ll be better equipped to handle the aftermath if you’re prepared and know what to expect.

Recovery can be quite challenging for many homeowners once a storm has ceased and the damage is done. However, if you know what steps to take afterward, you can mitigate some of the damage, and start moving forward. Keep reading to learn more.

Check Your Home for Damage

After the storm has passed, do a thorough walkthrough of your home to check the extent of the storm damage. While some damages might be apparent, others can go unnoticed unless your home is thoroughly examined.

Although a walkthrough is crucial, your home can be a dangerous place after a storm. You might observe slippery floors, cracked ceilings, and exposed electrical lines. With that in mind, it’s necessary to take the following precautions before entering your home:

  • Check your local news for neighborhood safety updates.
  • Never linger in standing water.
  • Avoid doing a walkthrough at night since it will be difficult to notice hazards.
  • Assume that all down powerlines can hurt you. Stay at least 10 feet away until they can be cleaned up.
  • Check your house for broken glass, exposed nails, and other sharp items that can hurt you.
  • Don’t use any open flames (such as a candle) to see better. You never know if there has been a gas leak. Open flames could be deadly.
  • If you smell a gas leak, turn off the main gas line immediately, open all windows, and leave the house.
  • Take pictures notating any damages.

Consume Clean Food and Water

When sorting through your food supply after a storm, throw away items that were damaged in the process. Even if it looks safe to eat, food that has come in contact with stormwater could be deadly. 

Throw away any perishable foods that haven’t been refrigerated and anything with an unusual smell or color. Remember the adage, “When in doubt, throw it out.”

Water can be difficult to come by after a storm. Listen to your local news for information about the cleanliness of your water supply. Don’t use contaminated water to make food, ice, or baby formula. Until your water supply is tested and safe, use only bottled, boiled, or disinfected water.

Take Care of Your Emotional Health

Emotional health is often a casualty after a disaster, but it’s rarely acknowledged. As you prioritize finding clean food and water and cleaning up your home, don’t forget about your emotional well-being as well. 

Lean on your loved ones to talk openly about the storm and the stress it caused in your life. You might also consider speaking with a mental health professional to help you work through any residual trauma.

Choose Western Disaster Clean Up for Restoration Services

If your home has suffered storm damage, Western Disaster Clean Up is here to help! Our experts have handled thousands of floods, fires, sewage backups, and smoke and odor damages. From a simple toilet overflow to homes fully submerged underwater, we have the knowledge and skills to get your home or business fully restored.

We service all of Northern Utah, including Salt Lake City, Sandy, Draper, Heber, Orem, Nephi, and more! Reach out to get started today.

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