Fire and water damage can be emotionally hard to deal with, as well a financially and physically. If you are affected by this damage, understand the process and how you can let the professional assist you in making this difficult time a little easier. By understanding the risk factors, you can also help to prevent fire and water damage in the future.
What Causes Fire and Water Damage
Fire and water damage to your home, office space or vehicle are often the result of a fire being put out by firemen or automatic sprinklers. The combination of the fire damage mixed in with the large amounts of water may make your home unlivable and dangerous to be in. Fires can be set on purpose, be the result of faulty electrical wiring or be accidental. Some accidental causes for fires are improper use of cigarettes, lighters or matches, not monitoring activities like cooking or baking, combustible liquids not stored properly and use of candles.
Water damage may occur when a fire is being put out. It can also occur due to flooding. Flooding may occur when sewers back up, from natural disasters including too much rain or ice melting and even from leaving a tap running and sinks or bathtubs overflowing.
How Fire and Water Damage is Assessed
There are companies that specialize in assessing fire and water damage. They will not only assess the damage, but also work with your insurance company to determine possible compensation and courses of action for restoration, if it is possible and feasible.
Insurance for Fire and Water Damage
Most home and office insurances have policies that cover fire and water damage. The process can be lengthy in getting your claim settled and you need to ensure your policy doesn’t have any hidden clauses regarding causes of the fire or water damage.
Many policies also will not cover flooding damage, especially if you are living in an area that is prone to flooding.
Preventing Fire and Water Damage
Make sure your family is careful in using household water. Follow manufacturer guidelines when using flammable products. Keep electrical outlets clear and not over-used. Store combustible products as per manufacturers recommendations and never leave candles unattended.
Remember too, that if not treated properly, water damage can lead to mold problems. Mold problems may be extensive in your home and are difficult and pricey to fix.
Tips in Dealing With Water Damage
If you suffer from fire and water damage, follow these tips:
- Is it safe to be in the house
- Are there any electrical hazards
- Wet materials are heavy, only do what you are able to do
- Be careful not to slip
- Remove any excess water by mopping and blotting
- If you can, lift any furniture up by placing on wood blocks or legs in foil
- Remove any colored rugs
- Place any object you can away from water and to a safer place
References:
Steamatic.ca. “Disaster Recovery Services” (accessed October 29, 2010).
Servpro.com. “Home Emergency Tips” (accessed October 29, 2010).
Tamara Laschinsky - Health and wellness advocate, author, researcher and owner of Natural e GREEN: Natural Health & Wellness store!
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