When Your Toilet Floods, Act Quickly
12/23/2018 (Permalink)
Use the Following Steps as A Guide
There is nothing worse than when you need to use the bathroom only to step through the door and see that there is water pooling on the floor. Sewer damage can strike at any time, causing substantial amounts of both superficial and structural damage. The key to dealing with a flooded toilet is acting quickly and knowing the right steps to take to deal with the situation effectively. If your building in Apex, NC, is flooded, use the following steps as a guide.
1. Turn Off the Water
The first and most important step will be to stop the flow of water. This can be achieved in two ways. The first is to lift and secure the float inside the toilet to stop the tank from refilling and causing further flooding. The second step is to shut off the water valve, stopping the water at the source.
2. Stay Safe
Sewer damage can be classed as an emergency and should be dealt with by a sewage company, as the overflowing water can contain harmful bacteria. Take measures to avoid contact with any contaminated water; this can include wearing rubber gloves and boots. You also want to be wary of any structural damage that may have occurred. If the water has flooded through multiple floors, the structure may be unsafe. When mixed, water and electricity create another hazard, and this must be taken into account before entering the flooded area.
3. Call a Professional
When there is structural damage and potential bacteria from flooding, it is best to bring in the professionals. Commercial building restoration services can provide all the equipment and skill necessary to safely clean up contaminated water and remove and repair damaged walls and floors. Industrial fans may be used to make sure that all areas are thoroughly dried before being disinfected and ready for repairs take place.
Flooding can be a major inconvenience, but by following these steps, the hindrances caused by sewer damage can be dealt with quickly and effectively. Having the knowledge to act quickly can minimize the damages caused by a flood.