Although tornadoes are more common in
certain parts of the United States, they have been reported in all 50
states. On average, tornadoes cause 70
fatalities and 1,500 injuries in the U.S. each year, but some years see much
higher numbers. In a typical year, over
$1 billion dollars in property damage is due to tornadoes.
Although some properties impacted by a
tornado may experience complete destruction, many more survive the twister with
anywhere from minor to significant damages.
They may be left with issues due to strong winds, hail, heavy rain and
even flooding when roofs, walls, windows and plumbing are destroyed or damaged.
Many of these properties can be rebuilt
and repaired, but there are potential hazards aside from live electrical wires
and leaking gas lines that people need to be aware. They include the following:
- Mold can
begin to grow in as short as 24 to 48 hours on many types of building
materials and household belongings when they become wet. It’s important to begin drying wet materials
as soon as it is safe to do so.
Some nonporous materials can be cleaned and salvaged, but most
porous materials should be discarded if mold growth is present.
- Water damage
and flooding caused by a tornado can bring not only rainwater into a
property, but also viruses, bacteria and chemical contaminants
- Asbestos can
be found in many materials that were used in older homes and
buildings. When removing debris,
these asbestos fibers can become aerosolized. Inhaled asbestos fibers can cause
respiratory disease, lung cancer and mesothelioma.
- Lead is a concern because it is a highly toxic metal. The disturbance or removal of materials containing lead-based paints from properties may result in elevated concentrations of lead dust in the air.
“Tornadoes can leave a path of destruction that can vary from neighborhood
to neighborhood and even house to house,” said Douglas
Waldie, President of Hudson Douglas Public Adjusters, LLC. “At Hudson Douglas Public Adjusters, we have teams of professionals that can
help property owners get back on their feet and rebuild tornado damaged
properties by comprehensively settling insurance claims while taking into
account all of the damage and hazards that may exist. Our insurance and property damage experts
help policy holders obtain the most accurate and complete settlement so
they can rebuild their homes and businesses and get back to their lives.”
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