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What Are the Risks of Flooding After a Fire?
7/31/2022 (Permalink)
Water damage from fire suppression in Northwest Las Vegas, NV
What Threats Do Floods After a Fire Pose?
Fire and flooding damage may seem like unrelated issues, but flooding or water damage can follow a fire and intensify primary damage. Find out more about flood risks posed by different types of fires and how the Federal Emergency Management Agency's National Flood Insurance Program, also known as FEMA NFIP, can help with wildfire damage.Water Damage From Fire Suppression
Regardless of the cause of a fire, fire suppression methods are likely to result in water damage.
- Fire hoses dispense anywhere from 300 to 800 gallons of water per minute.
- Firefighting efforts can grind in ash and soot.
- A structure with fire damage may become flooded.
Damage resulting from fire suppression should be covered by homeowner's insurance. Document the damage before taking mitigation measures.
Flooding Resulting From Wildfires
The risk of flash flooding and mudflows can be elevated for up to five years after a wildfire.
- Wildfires char the ground, limiting the ability of soil to absorb rainfall.
- Fires eliminate vegetation that anchors soil.
- Unabsorbent ground increases runoff.
Most homeowners' insurance policies exclude flooding damage. Homeowners in affected areas should obtain FEMA NFIP coverage.
Combined Fire and Water Damage
Standing water from flooding or fire suppression efforts worsens fire damage. Mitigation may involve:
- Eliminating water with a pump or wet vac.
- Preventing ash and soot from getting ground into hard flooring.
- Tearing out and replacing porous materials, such as carpet.
Depending on the source of the flood water, specialized cleaning methods may be used to eliminate signs of fire and water damage from certain contents or surfaces. Cleanup specialists will recommend the right restoration measures.
Rely on fire, flood, and water damage mitigation experts to restore a residence following fire suppression efforts or wildfire-related flooding in Northwest Las Vegas, NV. Residents should document damage and file a claim with the FEMA NFIP or homeowner's insurance providers to offset cleanup and restoration expenses.