For those of us not living near the banks of a river or a large body of water, flooding isn’t usually something we’re concerned about. While some homes are certainly at greater risk for flooding than others, almost no one is safe save for those living in extremely elevated houses.
Accounting for 40% of all natural disasters, flooding is the most common natural disaster worldwide. Ninety-six million people are affected by flooding annually, and this means that 1 out of every 100 people will be affected by flooding each year. It’s likely to happen to all of us at some point. Here at ProCare Restoration, we’d like to help lessen the damage by offering these important tips.
- Be sure all electrical systems (such as circuit breakers, sockets, wiring, and switches) are raised above the predicted flood level for your area. The predicted flood level can be found through contacting your local building department or your insurance agent.
- Bankrate suggests anchoring and raising all outdoor equipment – such as fuel tanks, air-conditioning units, and generators – above the flood level. This is especially important with fuel tanks, for if they are unanchored, it is likely they will break free and contaminate the surrounding area.
- Remember: it’s not only homes that can flood. Often, sewer systems flood – and sometimes this flood will overflow into homes. The Federal Alliance for Safe Homes recommends adding gate valves on all pipes entering the house. They offer a stronger seal, and only allow water to go out of the house.
- Keep your gutters and other draining systems clear. These allow water to flow away from your house and prevent buildups.
- Consider installing French drains if you live in a particularly wet area. These drains collect water in your yard and ensure that it flows away from your home.
- Keep important papers, electronics, and valuables on higher levels in your home, if possible. If you have computers in the basement, be sure to back them up to prevent loss of any important files.
- If a flood is possible, stay informed about the situation with a radio. Try not to use the phone lines unless absolutely necessary, as it is necessary to keep the phone lines open for those in an emergency situation.
- When a flood strikes, make sure you switch off gas, electricity, and heating. Leave the house if necessary, and do your best to ensure the safety of those around you.
- Finally, remember that a serious amount of flood damage can be prevented if you act quickly. Fixing leaks immediately will prevent dangerous mold growth, and if you find yourself with a serious flood, be sure to call us immediately. Because floods never seem to strike at a convenient time, we offer 24-hour emergency service.
Until our monkeys with typewriters here at ProCare Restoration figure out how to prevent floods completely, we hope that these simple tips will help to lessen the damage and give you just a little more peace of mind. Rest easy. We’re here if you need us.
