Dedicated Flood Damage Cleaning Services

Clearwater

Although this type of water is seemingly clear of contaminants and easy to see through, it can still pose a risk to your furniture and home. Mould can still grow after a clearwater flood, and it is dangerous if it encounters live electrical circuits.

Grey Water

This water will contain some contaminants that can cause sickness when consumed or touched. It is like tainted water you may find in a toilet, sump pump, dishwasher, or washing machine.

Blackwater

This is the most dangerous of water types, as it contains harmful and infectious bacteria that can cause severe sickness. Blackwater is polluted and hard to identify as it may not be black or have any visible contaminants.

What to do when there is a flood

In the UK, the government will issue a set of flood warnings depending on the severity of the flood and the risk of death to citizens. This guide provided by GOV.UK explains in more detail what these warnings mean and how to act when you get a flood warning.

General flood warning

• Move your vehicles to higher ground if safe
• Move family and pets to safety
• Store important items in a safe place such as the attic or upstairs — valuables, furniture, and furnishings
• Turn off all supplies if it is safe — gas, water, electricity
• Stay away from electricals in water
• Prepare the property with sandbags, flood barriers, or air brick covers
• Stay on high alert for flood warnings

Severe flood warning

• Follow local authority advice and evacuate if ordered to
• Bring an emergency kit that includes a torch, batteries, mobile phone, charger, warm clothes, important phone numbers, water, food, first aid kit, medicine, and baby care items (if needed)
• Alert your neighbours or fellow tenants
• Do not drive or walk through floodwater
• Keep everyone away from floodwater
• Wash your skin if you encounter floodwater
• Call 999 if you are in danger

We cover all areas in the Canterbury District of Kent, including:

• Bekesbourne
• Broomfield
• Chestfield
• Harbledown
• Herne Bay
• Hersden
• Stodmarsh
• Whitstable

What to do after a flood

If your home is damaged during a flood, you must prepare before re-entering your property. You should first ensure that there is no standing water around the exterior and check for loose power lines or gas leaks.

If you spot visible damage like cracking or chipped brickwork, contact a building inspector to check the property before re-entering.

You must always take care of yourself and take breaks often to prevent mental burnout and tiredness. If you suspect your home may be severely damaged, talk to your insurance provider to follow their advice before proceeding with the following steps.

• Wear protective gear such as rubber boots, gloves, face masks, goggles, and waterproof over trousers if necessary.
• Take photos of the damage for your insurance company
• Remove wet and contaminated items to dry them out
• Discard all contaminated food, water, medicines, and cosmetics
• Ventilate the home by opening doors and windows
• Use dehumidifiers and air purifiers in affected rooms
• Contact a professional flood damage cleaning company

Speak with a member of our team today

To discover the full range of services available for customers in Canterbury, either give us a call at 0208 066 0360 or send your details to enquiries@icecleaning.co.uk.