Basement flood, what are the risks:

While most people consider spring as their most favorite time of the year, the season often brings a lot of hassle for homeowners. As April showers begin to fall, the risk of having a flooded basement becomes a major concern for many people, as it includes both physical and health-related threats.

From water damage to raw mold and carbon monoxide poisoning, flooded basements pose many health risks to homeowners and their families. While anyone can be at risk, floodwater is most dangerous for vulnerable individuals such as pregnant women, children, and even pets.

For this reason, it is essential to understand and tackle the challenges associated with flooded basements to keep yourself and your loved ones safe from illnesses. Here are some of the most common health-related issues related to a flooded basement.

1. Mold

Mold can grow exponentially in damp and dark environments such as flooded basements. Prolonged mold exposure is dangerous to your health and can cause allergy-like symptoms such as breathing issues, skin rashes, and sneezing. 

For individuals with underlying health conditions and low immunity, the presence of mold can cause even more severe symptoms such as asthma attacks. In addition, if left untreated, mold exposure can lead to more serious health issues such as brain damage and even memory loss.

To prevent further damage, it is imperative to start the process of mold removal the moment you spot mold in your basement. In most cases, professional mold removal services involve procedures such as cleaning affected surfaces, disinfecting with bleach, and drying the area out with fans and dehumidifiers. In the final step, contaminated surfaces such as flooring, cabinets, furniture, and other personal items are disposed of altogether.

2. Contaminated Water

Besides causing water damage, a flooded basement can also contaminate your drinking water. When there is stagnant water in the house for an extended period of time, your local water reservoir tends to get contaminated with dangerous bacteria and parasites.

Consuming contaminated water can be hazardous, particularly for at-risk individuals such as pregnant women, children, and the elderly. While symptoms may differ, look out for nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which may occur after consuming contaminated water. These are the usual signs that you ingested dirty water to the detriment of your health. 

In rare instances, floodwater could also contain poisonous contaminants such as gasoline, lead, and pesticides. In this case, it is best to contact a professional water disposal service.

3. Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide poisoning is another health risk associated with flooded basements. With electric supplies often breaking down due to water damage, many households use portable generators to power appliances. Unfortunately, this causes carbon monoxide to be released into the environment as a byproduct. 

Being a colorless and odorless gas, carbon monoxide is hard to detect. However, exposure to carbon monoxide could result in several health hazards and may cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and disorientation.

To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, refrain from using generators inside your home. Alternatively, you can install a carbon monoxide detector to maintain a safe environment indoors.

Contact a Professional Remediation Company Today!

If you are dealing with a flooded basement, mold growth, or any other issues related to water damage, it is best to contact a professional remediation company. Keep in mind that only trained experts can assist you in ensuring that your home is safe and free from health hazards.

At Masters Remediation Services, we can help fix or reverse water damage through our extensive range of restoration services, including drying, dehumidifying, removing mold, sanitizing, and much more. 

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, we continue to provide trustworthy services for homeowners. At the same time, we have enacted rigorous safety protocols and are CSA-certified for infection control in hospitals and other health care facilities. 

To avail of our services or to find out more about how we can help you avoid the health risks of a flooded basement, get in touch with us at 1-604-838-8808 or book an appointment with our team of experts online.