It’s that time of year when melting snow and frequent rain overwhelms saturated ground and storm sewers. Even areas that rarely flood can fall victim to rising water, so preparation is advised no matter where your home or business is located. The time it takes to consider an emergency plan can save significant time, money and heartache if the worst happens.
The most common issue faced by homeowners and business owners during the spring thaw is minor flooding due to heavy rain and melting snow. Unfortunately, even minor flooding can cause a lot of damage. Overwhelmed storm sewers, a rising creek, and flooded parking lots will happen, but you can take steps to minimize the damage.
Protect your home or business
• Organize ground level storage spaces so items are elevated at least a few inches. If items must be on the ground, use plastic bins to protect them from encroaching water.
• Store important documents or irreplaceable items on shelving and in containers well above potential flood water.
• If you are in a flood-prone area, consider having your water heater, furnace and other appliances installed in elevated positions.
• Be sure ground floor and basement drains and sump pumps are clear and in good working order, including back up power sources.
• If reverse water flow is a potential problem due to overwhelmed storm sewers, consider installing check valves to keep the back-up out of your home.
• Inspect your property before heavy rain and address standing water issues, clogged detention basins and the need for retaining walls.
• If flood warnings have been issued and you have time, move furniture and valuables to upper floors and arrange for electricity and gas to be shut off before evacuating to protect your home or business from fire.
Protect your family
Flooding can happen suddenly. Rapid thawing can cause ice jams that combine with debris and lead to rivers overflowing their banks, dams failing and drainage systems being overwhelmed. When time is short, rely on forward planning to get your family to safety, especially if you are in an area that is prone to flooding.
• Have a plan in place that includes what you will take, where you will go and who you will contact, and review it with family members before flooding happens.
• Heed evacuation orders. If you are told to leave immediately, do not waste time gathering valuables.
• Put important documents, valuables, medications and irreplaceable items in a container that you can grab quickly if you must evacuate.
• Pre-pack a kit that includes drinking water, nonperishable food, cell phone, first aid items, flashlights and batteries, and other items you might need if you are away from home for several days.
• Create and have with you a list of phone numbers for people you will need to reach quickly in an emergency in the event your cell phone cannot be charged.
• Consider the route you must take to evacuate and have alternate plans if roads appear washed out. Remember, only a few inches of water can swamp a car.
When weather becomes unpredictable, planning for the worst can save your home, business and family. If you need additional safety tips, or you need help recovering from a flood, contact ServiceMaster Restoration by Lewis Construction. Our experts are available to help with prevention and recovery when it comes to flooding and the damage that can result. For more information call or click here.