How to Prevent Secondary Damage after a Disaster

When a disaster strikes, it’s important to take steps to prevent secondary damage. This can include things like preventing further water damage after a flood, or stopping a fire from reigniting after an earthquake.

There are a few things you can do to prevent secondary damage after a disaster:

1. Remove any standing water.

If there is any standing water on your property, it’s important to remove it as soon as possible. This can help prevent further water damage, as well as mold and mildew growth.

2. Inspect your property for damage.

Once the immediate danger has passed, take a look around your property for any damage. This can help you identify any potential hazards that could cause further damage, such as loose debris or broken windows.

3. Be aware of potential hazards.

There are a number of potential hazards that can cause secondary damage after a disaster, so it’s important to be aware of them. This includes things like gas leaks, downed power lines, and chemical spills.

Sources:

https://www.ready.gov/secondary-damage

https://www.fema.gov/media-library-data/20130726-1555-25045-0178/prevent_secondary_damage.pdf

https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/secondarydamage.html