After A Hurricane

1. Safety First: Returning Home After a Hurricane

Your safety is the top priority. Always follow guidance from local authorities and return to your property only when it has been declared safe.

• Downed Power Lines:
  • Treat all downed power lines as live and dangerous.
  • Avoid touching or driving over them.
  • Report downed power lines to emergency services immediately.
• Standing Floodwater:
  • Avoid contact with floodwater; it may contain contaminants, debris, or hidden electrical hazards.
  • Wear protective clothing if you must enter flooded areas.

2. Initial Damage Assessment

Once you have confirmed it is safe to return, assess your property for damage. Take precautions by wearing gloves, boots, and masks to minimize exposure to potential hazards.

• Structural Stability:
  • Inspect for sagging roofs, tilted walls, stuck doors, or cracked foundations.
  • Leave immediately if you hear creaking or shifting noises, as these could indicate an imminent collapse.
• Utilities and Systems:
  • Check for visible damage to plumbing, gas lines, and electrical systems.
  • Turn off the electricity at the main breaker if water damage is present.
• Pests and Wildlife:
  • Be alert for animals, insects, or displaced pests that may have entered your property during the storm.

3. Document the Damage

Thorough documentation is essential for insurance claims and helps ensure you receive the coverage needed for repairs and restoration.

• Take Photos and Videos:
  • Capture clear, detailed images and videos of all damage, including structural issues, water intrusion, and ruined belongings.
  • Document multiple angles to provide a comprehensive view of the damage.
• Catalog Affected Items:
  • Create an inventory of damaged furniture, appliances, and personal belongings.
• Save Receipts:
  • Keep all receipts for temporary repairs, cleanup supplies, and professional services.

This step not only supports your insurance claim but also provides peace of mind that the damage is thoroughly recorded.

4. Remove Salvageable and Precious Items

To prepare for the restoration process and protect your belongings, carefully remove items that are unaffected or salvageable from damaged areas.

• Prioritize Essentials and Keepsakes:
  • Safeguard irreplaceable items such as family heirlooms, photos, and important documents.
  • Remove unaffected clothing, electronics, and other essentials to a dry, secure location.
• Prepare the Space for Mitigation:
  • Clearing out salvaged items from affected areas ensures that mitigation professionals can begin their work immediately.
  • Open and cleared spaces allow for faster water extraction, debris removal, and drying.
• Avoid Contaminated Items:
  • Do not attempt to move items that are heavily soaked or visibly moldy; leave these for professional handling.

Taking this step not only protects your belongings but also accelerates the restoration process.

5. Stay Calm and Contact a Professional

The aftermath of a hurricane can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. A licensed restoration company can guide you through the process with expertise and care.

• Why Work with a Professional?
  • Professionals have the tools and knowledge to handle water extraction, mold removal, and structural repairs safely.
  • They assist with detailed damage assessments and insurance claims.
  • Experts ensure your health and safety by addressing hazards like mold, contaminated materials, and structural instability.
• Your Next Steps:
  • Take a deep breath and focus on what you can control.
  • Reach out to a trusted local restoration company, like Gulfside Restore and Remodel, to take the lead in restoring your property.