How Do I Start Cleanup After a Hurricane Passes?

Before you touch anything, check for hazards. Turn off the electricity at the main breaker if it is safe to do so. Look for downed power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage. If you smell gas or see sparks, leave the area and call the utility company.

Wear rubber boots, gloves, and a mask to protect yourself from contaminated water and debris. Floodwater can hide sharp objects and harmful bacteria. If you feel unwell or have any open wounds, see a doctor. Keep children and pets away from the flooded zone.

After removing the water, the drying process begins. Set up fans to blow air across wet surfaces. Use a dehumidifier to pull moisture from the air. If you have a generator, run it outside, never indoors, to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.

Check wall cavities and under floors for trapped moisture. You may need to remove baseboards or drill small holes to let air circulate. If the humidity in Columbus is high, drying can take longer. Keep the space ventilated until surfaces feel dry to the touch.

Some flood damage is too big for a homeowner to handle alone. If water rose above electrical outlets, soaked through walls, or reached the ceiling, you likely need professional help. The same applies if there is a strong sewage smell or visible mold growth.

Local water damage pros can assess the extent of the damage and begin the drying and sanitizing process. They use industrial equipment to extract water and dehumidify large areas. Their work usually involves removing damaged materials and treating the space to prevent mold.

For basement flooding, see the flooded basement cleanup page. If the water came from a broken pipe, the plumbing overflow cleanup page may be relevant. For sewage issues, check the sewage backup cleanup and sanitation page. Act quickly, but make sure the area is safe before anyone enters.