For homeowners or business people, the nightmare scenario is to find out that flood levels of water have hit your property. Of course, with damage at this level, the most efficient way to restore things to a sense of normalcy is by bringing in professionals to assess, recover, and restore. But when is it safe to do this?
Ensure Personal Health & Safety First
Before anything else, property owners should look after their own health and safety and that of other family members or employees that may be in a residential or commercial space.
During the storm, when flood conditions are still persisting, it is not advised for people to remain on the property, and they should seek shelter and safety elsewhere. - Learn more about flood damage restoration in Smyrna, GA
It’s also not advised for people en masse to return to the property even after the storm conditions have ceased. Depending on how severe storm conditions were or the flooding is on the property, the structure may not be safe.
Once you enter the property, do so with appropriate personal protection. Rubber boots, waders, and rubber gloves are crucial, not just to stay dry but to avoid contagion. Remember, the water is unlikely to be safe, especially if it’s confirmed that sewage water is present. If the switch box is safely accessible, turn off the power to the building to eliminate the risk of electrical shock from wet electronics.
At this point, you may gather up any important small, personal items for recovery. Family heirlooms, jewelry, important documents, and other essentials may be taken, but don’t spend time on larger items such as furniture.
The Two Day Window
If services in your area are still currently available, you should call for professionals to assess your home within 24-48 hours of the flood event. Go here. This may not always be possible, as sometimes storm or flood conditions can persist for days, or the region is declared a disaster area. No one aside from authorized personnel such as rescue teams or the military is permitted to enter
If these conditions aren’t present, bring in professionals as quickly as possible. Not only can they remove larger items from a property, such as furniture or, in commercial cases, heavy machinery, but they are also crucial in the water removal and drying process.
It’s not enough to remove water from the premises; the moisture penetrating the structure must also be removed. You’ll need professionals to remove any drywall, as this is often unrepairable after a flood, but hardwood floors or other surfaces, as well as inner components such as wall insulation, must be inspected and removed or dried out to ensure that a home and its furnishing are safe to restore and reuse.
Contact a Flood Damage Restoration Company Near You in Smyrna, GA
If your home or business has suffered flood damage, we can help. We have many years of experience serving the entire local area. Contact us 24/7 for a prompt, professional response.
Smyrna, Georgia, known as the "Jonquil City" for its abundance of jonquil flowers blooming each spring, is a charming suburb located just northwest of Atlanta in Cobb County. With a rich history dating back to its founding in the early 1830s, Smyrna has grown from a small rural community into a thriving residential and commercial hub. The city played a notable role during the Civil War, particularly during the Atlanta Campaign, when Union troops under General Sherman occupied the area, leading to the destruction of local railroads and infrastructure. Today, Smyrna is celebrated for its community spirit, quality of life, and convenient access to the greater Atlanta metropolitan area. Points of interest in Smyrna include the historic downtown area, known as the Smyrna Market Village, which features a mix of quaint shops, restaurants, and community spaces, providing a perfect spot for residents and visitors to gather. The Market Village is also the site of various events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Jonquil Festival, which celebrates the city's floral namesake with arts, crafts, food vendors, and live entertainment. Another significant site is the Brawner Hall, an elegantly restored historic building that serves as a popular venue for weddings, corporate events, and other gatherings. For outdoor enthusiasts, Smyrna offers numerous parks and recreational facilities, with the 33-acre Taylor-Brawner Park being a standout. This park includes walking trails, playgrounds, and the Taylor-Brawner House, another historic site that adds a touch of history to the beautiful surroundings. Additionally, the Silver Comet Trail, a multi-use path that stretches over 60 miles from Smyrna to the Georgia-Alabama state line, is a major attraction for cyclists, runners, and walkers seeking a scenic and serene environment. Smyrna's community center provides a variety of programs and activities for all ages, from fitness classes to art workshops, ensuring that there's always something engaging to do. For shopping and dining, the Cumberland Mall and the nearby Vinings Jubilee offer a wide array of options, from upscale boutiques to casual eateries and fine dining establishments. The proximity to SunTrust Park, home of the Atlanta Braves, adds to Smyrna's appeal, making it easy for residents to catch a baseball game and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of The Battery Atlanta, a mixed-use development surrounding the stadium that features shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. With its blend of historical significance, community-focused amenities, and access to both natural beauty and urban conveniences, Smyrna provides a unique and appealing lifestyle for its residents while offering visitors a delightful glimpse into suburban life in the heart of Georgia. Whether exploring its historic sites, enjoying outdoor activities, or participating in community events, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this welcoming city.