ServiceMaster Restore Experts Explain Real Danger From Mold and Water in Wake of Torrential Rain, Floods

MEMPHIS, TN--(Marketwired - March 10, 2016) -  Much of the South is experiencing record-breaking rainfall and flash flooding, leaving many home and business owners to deal with costly property damage. The professionals at ServiceMaster Restore share expert tips on what to do if you experience flooding or water damage, as well as how to recognize and avoid mold damage, a dangerous threat that can quickly grow in moist conditions. 

"Safety is a huge concern with the amount of water we're seeing across the South," said Peter Duncanson, director, disaster restoration system development at ServiceMaster Restore. "The first few days are critical. Bacteria and mold can begin to grow in places you can't even see in the first 24-48 hours. It's important to follow the right steps to help prevent mold growth and limit other types of damage from exposure to water."

What to do if your home or business has sustained water damage:

• If the outside temperature is above 80 degrees, use dehumidifiers if available.
• Use fans to circulate the air and assist drying.
• Remove as much water as possible by mopping and blotting.
• Wipe furniture dry.
• Lift draperies off carpet, loop through a coat hanger, and place the hanger on the drapery rod.
• Prop up wet furniture cushions for even drying and place small wood blocks or aluminum foil under furniture legs.
• Remove wet area rugs or other floor coverings and open furniture drawers, closet doors and luggage to enhance drying.
• Move photographs, paintings and art objects to a safe, dry location.
• Remove wet fabrics and dry them as soon as possible. Hang furs and leather goods to dry separately at room temperature.
• Remove damp books from shelves and spread out to dry.
• If damage occurs during a cool season, leave heat on; if in summer, use an air conditioner if available.

Water damage warnings:

• Do not use an ordinary household vacuum to remove water.
• Do not use electrical appliances on wet carpet or wet floors.
• In the event of a flood, be sure to turn the main switches in the circuit breaker box to the off position. Do not go into rooms with standing water if the electricity is still on.
• Do not lift tacked-down carpet without professional help. Lifting the carpet incorrectly could promote shrinkage.
• Call for professional help immediately. Damage from the water and bacteria growth can begin within 24-48 hours.

Even after wet items are removed, mold may remain hidden in drywall, carpeting and HVAC systems. "Removing mold requires cutting away damp drywall and sanding wood," said Duncanson. "Mold is nature's recycling agent; it eats things. The sooner a remediation expert can get to those things covered in mold, the less long-term damage."