September is National Preparedness Month. While no one wishes for a natural disaster, they can strike at any time! Having a plan in place may seem unnecessary now, but if/when disaster strikes, you will be happy you prepared for the worst!

First, make sure that you are equipped to receive watches and warnings for your area. You don’t want to be caught off guard and risk further damage to your business. Receiving such watches/warnings, would allow you time to prepare for evacuations, boarding up windows, bringing in outside equipment, etc. This can help lessen the cost of overall damage that may occur.

 

After a natural disaster has occurred, there will likely be some clean-up needed. Cleanup activities related to returning to homes and businesses after a disaster can pose significant health challenges. During a flood cleanup, failure to remove contaminated materials and reduce moisture and humidity may present serious long-term health risks from micro-organisms, such as bacteria and mold.

Any property damaged by water will need to be removed or decontaminated. This is a process that only a professional cleaning company can assist with. The decontamination should be done prior to anyone returning to the home or business.

Mold is another issue that can arise after water has saturated into areas. Mold has potentially harmful health benefits and needs to be properly removed. This mold removal process needs to be completed quickly and by a professional for best results.

Disasters can generate lots of debris, such as building materials, dirt, trees and shrubs, and personal property. Safe, proper and timely management of debris is essential. Check your local area for the proper ways to dispose of different types of debris. It is important that disaster debris be properly removed by professionals to protect your health, reduce injuries and minimize or prevent environmental impacts.

Octagon Building Care is a leader in commercial cleaning and building solutions for Fort Worth, Arlington, and Dallas. Follow us on Facebook for more great information.