Disasters can strike home in several ways, whether floods, fires, storms, or other catastrophic natural events or from sources inside the house, with the most frequent being: pipe bursts, sewage backflows, washing machine overflows, kitchen fires, along carbon monoxide poisoning. 

Here’s some information on the best way to deal with and prevent the disasters lurking from within your home:

1. Pipe Bursts

• When a pipe burst happens, a couple of gallons per minute can spurt out. If it happens, shut off the main water valve, then turn on the faucet in the home to allow the water to pour out of the faucet instead of the burst pipe. When the flow stops, the water has to be removed immediately. Call your plumber, insurance broker, and water damage specialist when possible. Learn more right here.
• Pipe bursts usually happen when the water inside them stinks. Read this informative article to understand how to prevent frozen water pipes.

2. Sewage Backflows

• Several elements contribute to sewage backflows, such as storms and hurricanes that cause river, flow, and seawater overflows. The contaminated floodwater is called black water.
• Always wear protective gear if you must walk. Urgently contact a professional restoration company to handle the cleanup.
• To prevent backflows, install backwater valves that prevent the backflow on the sanitary sewer line during a flood or sewage blockage.

3. Washing Machine Overflows

• Washing machines account for more than half of water damage events. If your washing machine overflows, turn off the power source, then clean out the water as fast as possible to prevent further harm.
• To prevent washing machine overflows, inspect hoses once per month. Search for indications of leaks, such as blisters, cracks, and lumps.
• For detailed information on the best way best to prevent and behave during washer overflows click here.

4. Kitchen Fires

• Frequent kitchen fires include grease fires, toaster fires, stovetop fires, and oven fires.
• If a pan caught fire, never take it outside, as you can spill burning oil on other objects. Never use water either, as this can splatter hot grease and cause burns. Use a fire extinguisher, place a lid on the pan or shed baking soda onto it.
• For toaster fires, then unplug the cord (if safe to do this ), then use a fire extinguisher or pour baking soda into it.
• In case of a stovetop fire, extinguish the fires with baking soda after turning off the oven.
• When you have a fire in your oven, then turn off the heat, then leave the oven door closed, and await the fire to die out.
• WARNING: Never use bread or sugar to douse a fire, as these products may cause a small explosion.

5. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

• Carbon monoxide poisoning is the main cause of accidental poisoning death in the U.S. Be alert to CO poisoning symptoms (including headache, dizziness, fatigue, and vomiting), especially when gas ovens or wood stoves are used inside.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home to prevent CO poisoning. Never ignore an alarm, even though nobody feels ill. CO is an odorless, colorless, and tasteless gas.
• Check more carbon monoxide security hints here.

These are merely a few of the disasters that may occur on your property. As with any tragedy, you can prevent one by being prepared and informed. PuroClean Austin is prepared to come to a home’s rescue in case of a tragedy involving fire, mold, and water damage.