Natural Disasters in the Home: What to Be Aware of in Eldersburg 

Unfortunately, natural disasters are an everyday occurrence for many people. Natural disasters occurred on average about 100 times per year in 1980. It has, however, increased massively in recent years. Natural disasters occur on average 300 times a year since 2000.

After a natural disaster has affected your life, you may need to consider some things. You should be cautious if you enter a household after being evacuated because of a natural disaster. Natural disasters are unpredictable, so you can never know what damage has been done to your house before entering. When entering a home, it is extremely important to take safety precautions. When returning home, consider these factors:

Glass

In most cases, the first thing to go in a house hit by a natural disaster is the glass on your windows and doors. As a result, there is a very high chance that large areas of your home will be covered in broken glass. Even seemingly intact windows and doors may remain fragile, so be extremely careful when near any glass fixtures in the house. To feel comfortable again in your home, it is best to have the windows and doors professionally inspected and fully replaced if necessary.

Fire Danger

Upon first returning home, you may not be able to determine the extent of the damage. A gas leak is one piece of damage that may have occurred. It is because of this that you should properly ventilate your area following a natural disaster. However, when entering the home, keep in mind that flammable gas may be present. Therefore, you should use a flashlight instead of a candle or any other naked flame in the home. You will need to contact a professional to inspect your home for any leaks and ensure it is safe for you and your family to return. 

Structural Damage

Even if you think an area of your home is relatively safe, it isn't always the case. There is no way to determine how strong the floorboards or walls are when water damage has occurred. It may only take a strong breeze to crack a primary wall of the house.

In addition to the danger posed by wet surfaces, another factor deserves attention. Water can carry electrical currents. Therefore, standing water can pose a very serious hazard once the electricity is restored. Utility companies should be notified when power lines are downed. Do not enter your home if there is standing water, and the electricity has been restored. Wait for the professionals to arrive. 

Animals

In addition to humans, animals can also be affected by natural disasters since many of them lose their homes in the process. They might end up in your home if they have to take refuge somewhere else. There's a good chance your house is now dark, sheltered, and damp. As a result, wild animals are likely to take up residence there and they will probably be territorial over their temporary home. Be mindful of this when picking up items that could be a home for animals. Immediately call a pest inspector if you suspect there are creatures in the home.

Call A Professional for Disaster Restoration

It is essential that you proceed with caution when entering your home after a disaster due to the possibility of ongoing danger. Be on the lookout for the potential issues listed above and contact a disaster restoration specialist as soon as possible. An experienced disaster restoration specialist can help limit damage and start restoring your home.

If your home has been effect by water damage, or fire damage due to a natural disaster or another disaster, contact Restoration1 of Central Maryland and allow us to help restore your home.