After a disaster hits, your home’s safety is at risk. It doesn’t matter if the emergency is big or small – any disaster can cause chaos. Your first impulse might be to jump in and start cleaning up so you and your loved ones can feel secure again. But hold on a sec – before you dive in, be aware of the dangers.
Disasters can bring in all sorts of risks to your Chicagoland home, so before you go back inside, know what you might be facing. Things to keep an eye out for:
- Damaged wires and circuits
- Broken glass and wood bits
- Furniture knocked over
- Weak structural integrity
- Pests
- Mold and germs
- Gas leaks
- Smoke
Please pay attention to these safety guidelines:
- Don’t enter a damaged building without a safety certification by a building inspector.
- Leave immediately if the building shifts.
- If you smell gas, contact emergency authorities and avoid returning home until it’s deemed safe.
- If the electrical circuits and equipment are wet, turn off the main power. Get an electrical inspection before turning it back on.
- Make sure to have a partner when assessing damage, as it can be unsafe. Avoid entering if you have asthma or allergies.
- Refer to S. Environmental Protection Agency guidelines on water supply and other issues when returning home.
Safety is Key!
The most important thing after a disaster is looking out for the well-being of your family. It’s super crucial to understand the dangers that could be lurking in wrecked places. So take every precaution when cleaning up, grabbing belongings, or just moving around.
If you suspect your Chicago area home isn’t safe to work in, or don’t have the right safety gear, or are worried about its structure, DON’T go back in. If you must, be sure to take the following precautions:
- Put on sturdy shoes
- Use gloves, goggles, and a hard hat
- Wear a mask to keep from inhaling bad stuff
- Opt for rubber gloves and boots if there’s flooding
- Take care lifting heavy things or using power tools
Photograph the damage before cleaning. Contact your insurance company and local authorities to ensure your damage is considered for a disaster declaration.
Your Safest Decision
To make sure your damaged home will be returned to its previous condition or better, don’t try to do it yourself. Reach out to experts – like us at ServiceMaster By Simons. After a disaster, we’ll ensure your home is safe once again while complying with Chicago area building codes and regulations. We’re trained, fully equipped, and know the best safety measures to get your home back to normal. We’ve got tons of experience restoring homes, salvaging valuables, and working with insurance to get your claim sorted. And as emergency response pros, we’re available 24/7 to lend a hand whenever you need us.