Hyderabadghar/Home Maintenance/After the Flood

When returning to flood damaged areas, it's important to be aware of the dangers.

Whether you are faced with a mud-coated lawn or waterlogged house, returning to a flood damaged property is sure to be traumatic, and can be dangerous as well. Just because the waters have subsided you're not necessarily on safe ground. After you're certain your neighborhood and home are free of major hazards, follow these guidelines to start over and take care.

Going in
Even after local law enforcement and utility companies have declared an area ready for homeowners to return, you'll need to approach your property with caution. Check all of the items on this list to ensure you go home unharmed. While you're at it, take along a notebook or camera to document any damage for insurance claims and tax forms.

Even if electricity is turned off in the area, be sure it is disconnected at the house.
Assume all wires (cable and electricity) on the ground are live and report them to the power company.
Make sure the house is completely dry before turning power back on. All wet furnishings and carpets must be removed.
Have the wiring and all appliances checked by a licensed electrician.
Look for exterior structural damage on the house including cracked foundations, sagging roofs, broken columns or piers and unsupported porch roofs. If the structure is severely damaged, do no enter the house. Call an inspector or contractor instead.

Watch for sagging ceilings. Damaged plaster or wallboard can collapse and cause injury. Carefully open doors and wait to see if debris falls before entering.
Look for broken gas lines and listen for gas leaks. If you smell gas, do not enter the property. Immediately report the suspected leak to the gas company.
Have a licensed plumber or the utility company check the gas lines before restoring service.

Other precautions

Never approach a flood-damaged property after dark. Wait for daylight when you can see all potential dangers. Use a flashlight only to further illuminate dark interiors or corners. Candles, lighters and other open flames can ignite gas leaks or spilled combustibles.
Remember that mud deposited by floodwaters may be contaminated with sewage and other harmful bacteria. Wear boots and gloves and be sure to wash with a disinfectant soap after contact with mud.
Never drink the local water without boiling. Water supply lines and wells will need to be flushed and tested before it is safe to drink tap water.
Dispose of all foods (even canned goods) that may have been in contact with floodwaters.

Source: U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency