Cleaning and Disinfecting Stored Decorations After Floods

 
Immediate Steps to Take
 

- First, disconnect or unplug the decorations if they are electric. This helps avoid shocks or further electrical issues.

- Remove them gently from any waterlogged areas. Avoid tugging on wires or fragile parts.

- Check for obvious damage like frayed wiring, burnt-out bulbs, or corroded parts. If any part looks dangerous, set it aside.

- Allow the decorations to dry in a warm, ventilated area away from direct sunlight. This prevents further water damage while you assess repairs.

 
Tools and Materials Needed
 

- Clean, dry cloths – For drying and wiping surfaces.

- Mild detergent – To clean any residue or dirt that may have accumulated with the water.

- Towels – To pat down any extra moisture.

- Hair dryer or portable fan – Use these on a low setting to help evaporate water from small areas, but keep a safe distance to avoid overheating.

- Multimeter – For checking electrical continuity, if you are comfortable doing so.

- Insulating electrical tape – For minor repairs, like covering exposed wires temporarily.

 
DIY Repair Versus Calling a Professional
 

- Homeowners can often fix minor issues on their own if the damage is limited to moisture and simple degradation of non-electrical elements.

- If the decorations include electrical components and damage is evident (like exposed wiring, or malfunctioning bulbs), it is safer to address these issues with professional help.

- For larger setups integrated into home wiring or outdoor installations, it may be best to call a professional rather than risk personal safety.

 
Who to Contact for Professional Help
 

- If you need assistance with electrical issues in your holiday decorations, contact a licensed electrician.

- For water damage that might affect structural aspects or outdoor installations, you might also need a water damage restoration expert.

- In St. Louis and Nashville, full-service residential and commercial restoration providers like Hoffman Brothers can be a great resource to ensure that the repairs are done safely and correctly.

 
Safety Precautions and Insurance Tips
nbsp;

- Always unplug electrical decorations before inspecting or handling them. Safety comes first.

- Avoid using a hair dryer too close to the decorations, as excessive heat can further damage them.

- If repairs seem beyond your expertise, do not risk personal injury or damage. Instead, invest in professional assistance.

- Verify that any professional you hire is fully insured and licensed. This helps protect you in case any damage occurs during the repair process.

- Check your homeowner's insurance policy for potential coverage if the water damage is extensive and part of a larger claim.