12 Steps to Disaster Cleanup

Floods, fires and burglaries can cause a lot of damage, both emotional and physical. Disaster cleanup can be overwhelming, but it is important to take the necessary steps to get your life back on track as soon as possible.

Follow these 12 steps to make the disaster cleanup process go as smoothly as possible.

1. Create a plan: Before you start the cleanup process, it is important to create a plan of action. This will help to ensure that you do not overlook any important details and that the process goes as smoothly as possible.
2. Contact your insurance company: One of the first things you should do after a disaster is contact your insurance company. They will be able to help you with the next steps in the process and will also be able to offer financial assistance.
3. Contact a professional cleanup company: While you may be tempted to try and clean up the mess yourself, it is often best to leave it to the professionals. A cleanup company will have the necessary equipment and expertise to get the job done quickly and efficiently.
4. Remove any damaged items: Once the professionals have arrived, they will begin the process of removing any damaged items from your home. This includes furniture, appliances and anything else that has been affected by the disaster.
5. Clean and disinfect everything: Once all of the damaged items have been removed, it is important to clean and disinfect everything in your home. This includes surfaces, floors and walls.
6. Dry out your home:  If your home has been flooded, you need to start the drying out process as soon as possible. Open doors and windows, use fans and dehumidifiers to remove the water from your home. If you have severe damage, you may need to bring in professional help to dry out your home and prevent mold and mildew.
7. Repair any damage: If your home has been damaged, you will need to start the repair process as soon as possible. This may include anything from fixing a broken window to repairing major structural damage.
8. Replace any missing items: If you have lost any personal belongings in the disaster, you will need to replace them. This includes clothes, jewelry and photographs.
9. Restock your pantry and fridge: If you have lost food in the disaster, you will need to restock your pantry and fridge. This includes buying new groceries and cooking supplies.
10. Contact your utility companies: If your utilities have been affected by the disaster, you will need to contact your electricity, gas and water companies. They will be able to help you get your service back up and running.
11. Get your finances in order: One of the final steps in the cleanup process is getting your finances in order. This includes creating a budget and getting your insurance paperwork in order.
12. Take care of yourself: Finally, it is important to take care of yourself during the cleanup process. This includes getting enough rest, eating healthy and staying hydrated.