The short answer
Shut off Utilities First
Before you touch anything, turn off the electricity to the rooms where water is present. Water conducts electricity, so standing water near outlets or appliances can be dangerous. If the breaker panel is in a wet area, call an electrician instead of stepping in. Also, shut off the main water valve if the leak is from a pipe, to stop the flow.
For gas appliances, if you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, leave the house immediately and call the gas company from outside. Do not switch lights or use any device that could spark. Keep your shutoff valve location written down so you can act quickly during a storm or pipe failure.
- Wear rubber boots and waterproof gloves
- Use an N95 mask to filter mold spores and dust
- Open windows and doors to improve airflow
- Use a flashlight, not candles, in dark areas
- Keep children and pets away from the cleanup zone
- Take photos of damage for your records
Assess the Water Type
Not all water is the same. Clean water from a broken pipe or rain is less hazardous than floodwater or sewage. If the water is black, smells foul, or comes from a toilet, it is contaminated and should be treated as hazardous. Avoid direct contact, and do not let it touch your skin or mouth.
For contaminated water, you need stronger protection, such as a full-body suit and goggles. If you are unsure about the water source, treat it as unsafe. The pros have the right equipment and training for sewage cleanup.
Protect Your Skin and Lungs
Wear heavy-duty rubber gloves, boots, and long sleeves to keep water off your skin. Floodwater can contain bacteria, chemicals, and sharp debris. If you get a cut, clean it with soap and clean water and cover it with a bandage. If you develop a fever or feel sick, see a doctor.
Mold spores can become airborne during cleanup, so wear an N95 mask or a respirator. If you have asthma or allergies, consider having someone else do the cleanup. Ventilate the area by opening windows and using fans to push damp air outside. This reduces the risk of breathing in harmful particles.
Dry Everything Thoroughly
Moisture leads to mold growth within 24 to 48 hours. Remove soaked carpets, padding, and upholstery that cannot be dried quickly. Use a wet vacuum to extract standing water, then set up dehumidifiers and fans to dry walls, floors, and furniture. Move items outdoors if possible to speed up drying.
Check hidden areas like behind baseboards and under cabinets. If materials stay wet, they may need to be removed. If the drying process becomes too big, the pros can handle it with industrial equipment.
Know When to Stop
DIY cleanup works for small, clean spills. But if water has soaked into drywall, insulation, or the structure, you may not be able to dry it fully. If the water is from sewage or flooding, the health risks are high. Stop and call the pros if the area is large or if you feel overwhelmed.
The pros use specialized tools and methods to remove water and prevent mold. They also know how to handle hazardous materials safely. For severe cases, like toilet overflow or pipe leaks, professional help is often the safest route.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Daytona Beach and nearby communities.
Call Now (386) 272-5697Frequently asked questions
Can I use bleach to clean up floodwater?
Bleach can kill some bacteria, but it does not work on all contaminants and can be harmful to breathe. For floodwater, a disinfectant approved for sewage is better. Always wear gloves and ventilate the area. If the mess is large, call the pros.
How long do I have to dry things before mold starts?
Mold can start growing within 24 to 48 hours of moisture exposure. Act quickly to remove standing water and dry surfaces. Use fans and dehumidifiers. If you cannot dry everything in that time, consider removing wet materials or getting professional help.
Is it safe to clean up sewage myself?
Sewage contains harmful bacteria and viruses. It is risky to handle without proper gear. If you do it, wear full protective clothing and a mask. For large areas or if you have health concerns, call the pros. They have the right equipment for sewage cleanup.