Mold can occur in places where there is excess moisture. At STOP Restoration, we remind you that if you’ve had a water damage event, especially after a natural disaster such as flooding, hurricane or other water-intensive situation, there are important safety measures that will minimize risk, both from water and from mold contamination.
After water damage occurs, it is important to properly and thoroughly dry out your house. This includes the structural components of your house, including the framing, sub-flooring and wall cavities. Don’t make the mistake if thinking that water damage is simply “wet carpeting.” It will not dry out on its own. 24-72 hours is the goal for complete drying.
Water damage is usually the start of most mold contamination situations we find. As we service the Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Jensen Beach and Stuart area, we find that a lack of education on water damage, not understanding its progressively damaging effects, and the dangers of letting mold grow unmitigated play into the causes of most serious mold contamination and of structural damage caused by water.
In both water damage and mold contamination, follow these safety precautions to protect yourself and your family and to help minimize the risks associated with water damage and exposure to mold and mold spores.
WATER DAMAGE SAFETY
- Avoid putting children on the job of water damage clean up or mold remediation
- Make sure electrical is off in any area you are working
- Depending on the suspected level of contamination the water might contain, use proper protective equipment including rubber boots, waterproof gloves and face/eye protection
- Remove wet furniture and other possessions from wet rooms immediately. These will need to have their own drying process set up if they have become wet or overly moist from being in the wet environment
- Stay out of muddy areas unless wearing high, rubber boots
- Remove (by squeegee, vacuum or carpet removal) as much water from the room and floor as possible
- DO NOT use fans if you know or suspect mold growth in a room. Fans and air movement can spread mold spores.
MOLD CLEAN UP SAFETY
- Children and the elderly should not be part of your mold clean-up crew
- Protect your skin by wearing clothing (tyvek suits are recommended) and proper gloves
- Wear a mold-rated respirator and eye protection
- NEVER mix bleach and chlorine, as this (and possibly other combinations) can create dangerous vapors.
BOTH WATER & MOLD SAFETY TIPS:
- Do not work under sagging ceilings or other structurally damaged areas
- If you need to remove soggy or moldy drywall, place into heavy-duty plastic trash bags (“contractor bags” are usually tough enough)
- Feel free to research and read more about water damage and mold cleanup at www.stoprestoration.com.
Clearly, the best choice to handle water damage or mold clean up is to have a professional restoration contractor, such as STOP Restoration, on the scene. In the Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Jensen Beach and Stuart area, call us at(772) 266-5428 for stress relief and confidence that your home or building can and will be returned to safe, dry and pretty.
