Flooding and Water Damage in Palm Bay does more than Destroy Property

12/22/2021 (Permalink)

Mold can cause health effects.

The Risks Associated with Flood and Water Damage in Melbourne.

Flooding and water damage in the Palm Bay area does more than destroy property; it creates an environment with numerous health risks. While anybody can be susceptible to these risks, certain segments of the population, like people with lung disease, children and the elderly, are at greatest risk.

Waterborne Dangers

Standing water is an ideal place for microorganisms, like bacteria, mold, and viruses, to breed. The chances of standing water becoming a breeding ground increases when the water damage contains toxins and sewage. The mold, viruses and bacteria created in this environment can become airborne.

The dangers are not eliminated after the flood water recedes, the contaminants still exist. 

Dampness is another risk worthy of concern. The dampness of household items, furnishings and even the building can create an environment that encourages the growth of mold, dust mites, microorganisms and cockroaches.

Why Cleanup After a Flood is Important

Cleaning up after a flood or water damage should be a priority. The clean up process should also be handled with care. Any items that get cleaned must be cleaned properly. Throw away anything that cannot get cleaned or is damaged beyond repair.

Excess moisture after a flood or water damage negatively impacts indoor air quality. Because of this, flooded areas need a thorough cleaning as soon as possible. Here are a few of the problems caused by moisture:

• Environment becomes perfect for the reproduction and growth of microorganisms that could cause health problems.
• Long-term exposure to humidity is ideal for the population of dust mites.

Anyone involved with cleaning up after a flood or water damage should wear proper attire that includes masks and gloves. Coming into contact with many of these contaminants can cause illness.

The Cleanup Process

No one enjoys cleaning up after a flood or water damage, but its importance cannot be overestimated. Depending on the severity of the water damage, the cleaning process can be an arduous task. Here are the necessary steps of that need to be taken.

1. Find the source of the leak and stop it. 
   
   
2. Figure out whose health could get affected
   
   Make it a point to protect those who are most vulnerable to illness. This group will include the elderly, people with compromised immune systems, people with chronic illnesses and children.
   
   
3. Determine the extent of the problem
   
   This involves identifying all of the areas that are affected by flood water or water damage.
   
   
4. Formulate a clean up plan
   
   The plan needs to involve removing water damaged items and furniture while protecting those involved in the clean up process. Any items that can be salvaged should be cleaned. Those that cannot be cleaned should get thrown away. Any items that sat in water for 24 to 48 hours needs to get thrown away. Once everything is clean, do a final check to assess the thoroughness of the task. Throughout the process, make sure everyone involved is wearing protective gear.
   
   It is important to not rely solely on air purification devices to get the job done. Proper cleaning and throwing away damaged items from water damage is the only way to clean after a flood.

SERVPRO of West Brevard proudly serves Melbourne, Satellite Beach, Melbourne Beach, Indialantic, Indian Harbour Beach, and surrounding areas. We are available 24 hours/7 days a week and are ready to restore damage to your home or commercial structure caused by:

• Water Damage
• Fire Damage
• Disaster, Storm, and Flood Damage
• Mold Damage