Insurance

Flooding can occur in any place at any time. But, how can you be prepared to alleviate or avoid flood damage? The following are some tips every home owner should keep in mind.

Practical Things to Do Before Flood Warnings

Make sure all of your electrical outlets, circuit breakers and wiring are above 12" from the floor. If they are not, contract a professional electrician to make the needed changes. Appliances such as furnaces and washers and dryers should also be raised at least a foot off the floor.

Another great precaution you can take is to have a plumber install a backflow valve so that sewage cannot enter your home in case of flooding. Also, seal your basement walls with a waterproof compound.

If you live in an area that is prone to flooding, you may want to go to such extremes as to have your whole house raised off the ground. Some also have built flood walls, which create barriers help prevent flood waters from enter your home.

Simple Measures to Take When There is a Risk of Flooding

You will want to make sure that the gutters on your house are not clogged with leaves or any other material. If gutters are clogged during heavy rain, water could enter the house, and cause severe flooding.

Putting sump pumps in place in your basement will help to expel flood waters, should they enter. It is good to always make sure they are in good working order and that they have a backup energy reserve, in case of an emergency.

If flood risk is imminent, keep updated by tuning into local television or radio stations. In case flash floods are predicted, you should quickly take any brief precautions to protect your home, and leave the house. Also, make sure that the main circuit breaker of the home is turned off before evacuating.

After Flooding

As soon as it is safe to do so, those affected by flooding should act quickly so as to save any valuable objects. Any electrical objects should be removed so that they can be dried out and hopefully salvaged.

Remove standing water from inside the house as soon as possible. Install fans and dehumidifiers to dry out the home. Thoroughly clean and disinfect your home.

Check with your insurance company to see if they will cover any damages you may have suffered due to flooding.