The short answer
Common Hazards in a Restoration Zone
The primary goal during restoration is to dry the structure, which creates an environment unsuitable for children. The pros use powerful fans, dehumidifiers, and air scrubbers that create loud noise and strong air currents. Extension cords may run across floors, and furniture is often moved or stacked, creating tripping hazards. Wet drywall and insulation can be unstable, and electrical outlets in the affected area should be considered live and dangerous.
Additionally, the drying process can stir up dust, allergens, and possibly mold spores if mold was present. While air filtration equipment helps, the air quality is not ideal for young lungs. There is also a risk of exposure to contaminated water if the damage came from a sewer backup or flood. Keeping children away minimizes their risk of accidental injury or illness during this critical phase.
Setting Up a Safe Temporary Space
If you must remain in the home, designate a dry, secure room far from the work area as a safe zone for kids. This space should have its own bathroom facilities if possible and be stocked with essential toys, books, and snacks. Ensure all pathways to this room are clear of equipment and debris. Communicate the boundaries clearly to your children, explaining that the work area is off-limits.
For infants and toddlers, a playpen or gated area within the safe room can provide an extra layer of containment. If the restoration is extensive and your safe zone is compromised by noise or dust, consider temporary lodging. Staying with family or in a hotel may be the most practical way to maintain normal routines and reduce stress for everyone during the project.
Protecting Belongings and Sentimental Items
Children's rooms often hold irreplaceable items like stuffed animals, artwork, and special blankets. Discuss these items with the local water damage pros before work begins. The pros can often move and clean certain non-porous toys and hard-surface items. For porous, sentimental belongings like a favorite plush toy, you may need to handle cleaning yourself following specific guidelines to prevent mold.
- Remove all stuffed animals and cloth toys; they can harbor mold quickly.
- Place important schoolwork, books, and paper items in a dry, elevated location.
- Wipe down hard plastic and metal toys with a disinfectant if they got wet.
- For electronic toys or gaming systems, disconnect power and remove batteries immediately.
- Discuss special furniture, like a crib or heirloom dresser, with the pros for handling.
- Take photographs of damaged sentimental items for potential insurance documentation.
Communicating with the Restoration Pros
Clear communication with the pros is key to safety. Point out any specific hazards in the room they should know about, such as a loose floorboard or an outlet that frequently trips. Inform them of your plan for your children, including where the safe zone is located. This helps the pros be mindful of their noise and activity near that area.
Establish a daily check-in time to get updates on progress and any changes to the work plan. Ask about the schedule for moving large equipment or when they anticipate turning power back on in the room. Knowing the plan helps you manage your child's day and avoid unexpected disruptions. Always ensure the pros know if a child or pet is in the home so they can be extra cautious.
Returning to the Room After Restoration
Do not allow children back into the room until the pros confirm it is fully dry and safe. This final check uses moisture meters to verify that walls, floors, and subfloors have reached a dry standard. All equipment should be removed, and electrical outlets should be tested and safe for use. The room will also need a thorough cleaning to remove any residual dust or debris.
Once cleared, you can begin the process of moving furniture and belongings back in. It is a good time to consider any preventive measures, like moving beds away from windows or ensuring gutters are clear. Sudden storms can cause leaks, so regular home maintenance is wise. A final walk-through ensures the space is not only dry but also restored to a clean, healthy environment for your child.
Water damage does not wait
Phones are answered 24/7 for Oklahoma City and nearby communities.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
How long will my child be out of their room?
The timeline depends on the extent of the water damage. A small leak may take a few days to dry, while major flooding could take a week or more. The pros can give you a better estimate once they assess the moisture levels in the walls and floor.
Can stuffed animals be saved after water damage?
It is difficult to fully salvage stuffed animals because they absorb water and can grow mold inside. You may attempt to wash and thoroughly dry them, but success is not certain. For highly sentimental items, consulting a specialist in fabric restoration is the best course of action.
What if my child has asthma or allergies?
Extra caution is needed. The drying process can circulate allergens. Keep your child away from the home entirely if possible until the work is done and the home has been aired out. Discuss your child's health concerns with the pros so they can adjust air filtration if needed. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.