Water infrastructure is a critical resource that many communities depend on. But it is also an indicator of structural inequities that can be linked to racial, economic, and social inequalities.
When infrastructure decisions are made, they often lock in a history of racism that can set the stage for future tragedies. This is especially true in black-majority cities like Jackson, which has faced decades of problems with its water system.
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In Jackson, Mississippi, the state capital and largest city, people struggle to find enough water for toilets, showers, and cooking. More than 150,000 people are without a safe supply of water, according to Governor Tate Reeves.
The water crisis in Jackson is a result of years of issues with the city’s water system, which has been deteriorating for decades. It’s also caused by a torrent of rain and prolonged freezing temperatures that have sparked pipes to break, causing leaks.
The Mississippi Emergency Management Agency and local officials are coordinating with the federal government to help stabilize the water system and develop a plan for long-term solutions. In addition, the United States Army Corps of Engineers and the Environmental Protection Agency directly support the city.
Contact Your Insurance Company
If you have insurance, it’s essential to contact your insurance company immediately after discovering that you have water damage. They will provide you with guidance and recommendations on how to go about cleaning up your property.
It’s also a good idea to ensure you’re working with an insurance carrier that will handle your claim reasonably and efficiently. You can check their reputation on a national claims database and talk to other customers who have used them.
Jackson’s water crisis is affecting many residents in the city and surrounding areas. Some people have posted photos of buckets and tubs filled with brown water.
Get a Sump Pump
Flooding can be a frightening prospect. It’s terrifying when you think about what it can do to the more vulnerable areas of your home—your basement, crawlspace, and the like.
Luckily, getting a sump pump installed is an easy way to prevent flooding from occurring in these places. It starts with digging a pit at the lowest level of the area so that water will flow downhill into it.
The water is pumped outside through a plumbing pipe attached to the sump pump outlet. Depending on local regulations, it may drain to a dry well, creek, pond, or sewer.
Turn on Your Dehumidifier
If you notice damp spots on your windows, damp conditions, musty odors, condensation, or warped wood surfaces in your home, it could be time for a dehumidifier. Humid air can cause mold and mildew, which isn’t healthy for your family and can lead to costly repairs if left untreated.
Energy Star estimates the optimal relative humidity level to be between 30 and 50 percent. A level below that can cause health problems such as chapped lips, and too-high groups can also breed dust mites and lead to mold growth.
It’s essential to run your dehumidifier properly throughout the winter. This can range from a few hours a day to as long as it takes for your unit to dry out your space.
Contact a Professional
When water is introduced to a property, it can cause significant damage. Whether it’s the result of burst pipes, flooding, or overflowing toilets, it’s crucial to address it immediately.
Unless the water is clean, a professional water mitigation Jackson MS company should be called to perform a thorough inspection and dry out the area. They will also be able to eliminate the risk of mold growth that can occur in damp, damaged areas.
In addition to the water’s effect on your property, it can also lead to mold growth, which can wreak havoc on the health and well-being of occupants. Therefore, it’s essential to contact a water mitigation Jackson MS, professional for proper remediation and removal services and other necessary repairs.