Water Damage Safety

Water damage can occur so quickly within a home. All it takes is a sink tube to crack, washing machine to break, or an overflowing toilet. These examples are just a few from a long, realistic list of possible sources of water damage. Once it occurs, the damage can range from light to severe and can be taken care of quickly or may require extensive restoration. Whatever the case may be, it is important that the damage be attended to immediately, as it will greatly help the homeowner in both the short and long run.

Handling water damage as quickly as possible may curb the severity and extent of the damage in certain cases, and it could also help avoid the loss of valuables. More importantly, taking care of water damage quickly and carefully may protect your health. Water damage has the potential to create many dangerous situations, so taking the proper precautions is incredibly important. Being aware of the many factors involved in an environment damaged by water may help you avoid serious harm.

• The source of the water is one of the most common ways someone could potentially encounter a dangerous situation. If, for instance, a toilet has overflowed, there is a possibility the water may be quite hazardous depending on if it contains fecal matter or other bacteria. The water that has spilled into your home may be dirty and should not be handled without proper equipment. Being in contact with this type of water should be especially avoided if you have any exposed cuts, as it may cause an infection.
• On a similar note, bacteria ridden water can easily be displaced and can settle in different areas, contaminating more than just the originally affected area. 
• Depending on the extent of the water damage, in certain cases the water level may grow high enough where anything below it may not be visible. In these instances, there is a danger of slipping, tripping or loosing your balance.

Lastly, it is imperative to pay attention to the area around the water damage for any and all electrical sources. Any exposed electrical circuits can cause severe damage to a home or worse, to you. Any wire or cable products that have had contact with excessive moisture or water should be avoided completely. Having contact with water damaged electrical equipment may cause you to suffer a serious or fatal shock.