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Floods have been wreaking havoc throughout the US this winter. If your home is one that's been affected by seasonal flooding, you'll want to get started on the cleanup as quickly as you can. Before you begin the cleanup, take a look at the information provided below. The tips described here will help you avoid problems while you're cleaning up after a flood.

Don't Wait for Adjusters

If your home has been damaged in a flood, you may think that you need to wait for an adjuster to come out before you start with the cleanup. However, that's not the case. You actually want to begin the cleanup before the adjuster visits your property. You could be waiting a few days for the adjuster to make it out to your house, especially if there's been widespread flooding in your neighborhood.

Waiting too long to begin the cleanup could lead to further structural damage, a loss of additional property, and mold growth. Instead, begin your cleanup as soon as you contact the insurance agency. The adjuster will be able to assess your personal property loss by going through the items you've removed from the home. Just be sure not to haul anything off to the dump before the adjuster has a chance to inspect the items.

Know What's Below the Surface

If you're going to wade into the water to begin the cleanup, you'll need to know what's below the surface. There may be more than water down there. In fact, there could be hazards in the water that can cause you serious injuries.

Electrical Hazards

If your house is flooded, and the water level went above your power outlets, that water could be electrically charged. It can also be electrically charged if you had active power strips on the ground. Before you step into your home, make sure the power has been turned off.

Dangerous Creatures

When your house is flooded, the last thing you're thinking about is the threat of venomous snakes, fire ants, and other dangerous creatures. However, you need to be concerned about those creatures. Flood waters can bring a wide variety of creatures into your home. Before you venture into your home, know that you'll need to keep an eye out for creatures that may harm you.

Sharp Objects

If your home is still under water when you begin the cleanup efforts, there could be sharp objects on the ground. To protect your feet, be sure to wear steel-toed boots to prevent injuries.

Avoid Mixing Cleaning Chemicals

When you're cleaning up after a flood, you want to make sure that everything gets properly sanitized. While you're sanitizing your home, you want to avoid mixing cleaning chemicals. Mixing chemicals can lead to serious health risks, especially inside an enclosed home. If you're going to be using a cleaning solution containing chlorine bleach, avoid using any other chemicals in your home.

If your home has been damaged in a flood, the information provided here will help you during the cleanup. If you're not sure where to start, contact a water damage restoration contractor near you.