24/7 Emergency ServiceFlood Damage Protections for Your Household
11/4/2019 (Permalink)
As a homeowner, it is important to be aware of risks even if you think they are unlikely to happen to you.
Though your home may not be located on a low-lying plot of land, with 90% of natural disasters involving flooding, it is important to be aware of ways to protect your family and belongings should the waters begin to rise.
Preventing floods is impossible, but homeowners can lessen a flood’s impact with certain precautions:
Know your risk. By calling the local branch of your emergency management office or using the FEMA Flood Map Tool, it will be easier for homeowners to be aware of risks that are specific in their neighborhood.
Elevate valuables. Anything precious, irreplaceable or valuable should be kept off-site or in a safe protected from the elements. It is also not a bad idea to record digital copies so you always have the documents on hand.
Turn off electricity. It may seem unlikely that the waters would reach electrical appliances or outlets, but having live electricity near floodwaters can still be dangerous. Shut off the electrical breaker to any rooms that are at-risk for a flood.
Raise hazardous materials. Prevent chemical spills, pollution and even fire risks by elevating materials that are hazardous so they will not be reached by floodwaters.
Anchor propane and fuel tanks. Anchor propane tanks securely or have them removed from the property altogether to prevent dangerous tips, spills and fires in the event of rushing water.
Prepare appliances.Refrigerators and other appliances can be elevated on cinder blocks to prevent water from damaging internal machinery if a flood were to rise more than a few inches.
Discuss emergency procedures. Discuss a disaster plan and evacuation route with your family so everyone is aware of the procedure. Show all adults and older children where to turn off the electricity and gas mains in the house—and keep emergency supplies handy.
Taking precautions against a flood now will save you a headache later if a natural disaster were to occur. By staying aware and studying emergency procedures, homeowners can protect their property and keep their family safe from water damage that floods can lead to.
If you’ve experienced water damage due to a flood or other causes, SERVPRO® of Garden Grove East/Anaheim Central is here to help. Our fully trained water remediation technicians will be there for you when you call.