Challenges In Post Disaster Clean-Up: Water Removal

Part of what makes water removal after major floods difficult is the emotions that come with it. People come back to their homes, and see the damage the water has done to their home. Indeed, water removal should have symbolized rebuilding, and thus new beginnings. Instead, it looked upon as a time to look at regrets.

If you think water removal is like that, then STOP. Step back and try to assess the situation. Remember that you are back in your homes, and that the process of water removal means that there is still something to reclaim in your home. It may not look like it, but now is the time to be thankful, since there are others who have lost their homes entirely.

Instead of looking at this as a tragedy, try seeing it as an opportunity to begin anew. Think of the water removal process as a cathartic experience, wiping away the filth of the old to make room for the other things that might come into your life.

First, have a water removal plan before you go back to your house. Discuss which places you will tackle first, and what equipment you might need. Floods often bring in several chemical and biological pollutants, which complicate the water removal process. Don't forget to ask for help, so contact friends and relatives ahead of time.

Remember that you are also under a time crunch, as mold usually sets in within 48, so it's important to remove all waterlogged items within that time frame. Have a tent handy, or ask friends ahead of time if they are willing to store some of your things, just in case it rains.

In cleaning, be sure you wear the proper clothes, particularly when you are wading in toxic flood waters. Since you know your home better, you will be able to gauge the amount of waste found in your home. If you've been using your basement as storage for several toxic chemicals, it may be wise to call in a professional to do the water removal for you. Wading through toxic flood waters can make you sick, often with severe side effects. Your health is not worth the risk to your home.

Make sure you also turn of the electricity in your home. Some homeowners forget to turn off the electricity, causing major shorts in appliances, or worse-electrocutions.

Do not sweat over disposable things, especially when they can no longer be saved. Regrets are a little too late at this point, so work on keeping the things that can be restored, and disposing those that can no longer be saved. Be honest. Do not hoard items that you know you do not have the time or the money to restore. Most people save items because they think they will save money, but often forget about these items, or simply give up and buy new ones.

Use this opportunity to rebuild. How many times have you been able to see an empty space in your home? Not since you bought, perhaps, when you were just starting out. Think back to those days, and remember the sense of anticipation you felt in filling your house with things again. Most people never get the opportunity of getting a blank slate, so learn to see the latent advantages of the situation, and begin anew.

About the Author

Charmaine Pierce is a water service advocate for Detroit Sewer Water Removal Service and Tampa Water Removal

Author Profile: florabat

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