Applications / Storm and Flood Restoration Tips

September 17, 2019

Hurricane season stretches from June 1st to the end of November. However, we typically see an increase in movement and destruction specifically from August to late October. We have compiled some information on how to be prepared this hurricane season.

Catastrophic weather events, like hurricanes, can have damaging effects on homes. Beginning the water extraction and restoration process can be time-consuming and taxing, but requires careful attention. To avoid further damage, begin the flood clean up promptly after the storm. Knowing the proper steps to take, and working with the right emergency service professionals can speed up the cleanup and restoration process and get you back into your home quicker.

In the event of an adverse weather event, we’ve compiled these tips to help you prepare for a large storm or hurricane and to help you begin your restoration process to affected areas.

5 Hurricane Preparedness Tips

1. Determine your evacuation route/evacuation plan. Since most people will be evacuating all at the same time, it would be a good idea to have an idea of alternative routes to avoid congestion. Give yourself enough time to evacuate (leave room for traffic!) before the storm is predicted to hit.
2. Create a list of emergency phone numbers and contacts. This can range from family members to first responders, local shelters and hospitals. Having a list ready will help in the event of an emergency.
3. Compile your first aid kit and other emergency supplies. This includes gas, a few days worth of water and dry food, blankets, charging your cell phone, gathering important documents, flashlights and extra batteries, and extra clothes/toiletries.
4. Board up windows and doors to protect against high winds and flying objects. A great way to protect your house is by nailing boards outside your windows. Obviously, only do this if you have adequate time to prepare.
5. Check the news for weather updates. Stay on top of the latest news to know when the storm is predicted to hit/emergency information. This will be vital to your evacuation plan.

Beginning the hurricane and flood restoration & cleanup process

Safely assess the situation

If your site is safe enough to enter, walk around and take pictures and notes of all the damage. Be sure to contact your insurance company to help you with this process. Be sure to avoid areas with standing water as this can pose a threat to your safety.

Consult with a contractor or disaster restoration company

The emergency service pros know exactly what to look for and how to fix it. They’ll be able to help get your home back to the state it was prior to the event and may even be able to make improvements to protect against future severe weather events.

Seek shelter

Depending on the information you learn from your contractor/insurance agent/water damage restoration company, it may be wise (or even vital) to find a temporary home, while flood damage repairs are in process. You and your family’s health and well-being comes first.

Use the proper safety equipment in your home

Due to flooding, your home may have water damage. This could result in mold remediation and mold growth. Mold is hazardous and is toxic to the human body. We strongly recommend leaving the mold removal process to a disaster restoration team. These companies are equipped with the proper safety products, such as personal protection, dust barrier poles to separate rooms, tarps to cover holes, and much more. Their water damage restoration services include handling water removal, dehumidification, damage control and repair.

If at any point you do need to enter your home during this time, be sure to wear the proper safety protection to ensure your health isn’t at risk. This includes protective wear (like Tyvek suits), masks, and shoe protection.

Trimaco is here to help

We hope you find these restoration and safety tips helpful in preparing for a large storm and getting back on your feet. Be sure to explore Trimaco’s products specific to disaster and flood restoration. Please feel free to leave other helpful prep/cleanup suggestions below.