How to be Flood Safe & Savvy
Rain, Rain, Go Away!
One of the worst times for many when it comes to the possibility of a flooded home is during springtime, when the ground is thawing, snow is melting, and then relentless rain starts pounding down. This spring, Ohio has seen the abundance of rain with still no end in sight.
Hopefully, your roof is leakproof, your foundation is up to the task, and your sump pump (if you need one) is chugging along faithfully. Water is intrusive and can find the weakest spot in your home and create all types of damage and costly repairs.
There are ways to be flood safe and even flood savvy by paying attention to advice and guidance from experts before disaster strikes.
The first thing to do is logical and you are probably already doing it: Watch the weather. Monitor your favorite news source for weather alerts and updates, especially when you know a storm may be brewing and coming your way. You can set automatic alerts easily. There’s a big difference between a flood watch and a flood warning, know your weather event terminology. A watch means flooding may occur. A warning means weather conditions are prime to create flooding.
All weather-related issues should prompt preparedness, which may include checking all doors, windows, openings to your home, and checking your basement or first floor areas for items that can easily be damaged in a flood. Put them up high — just in case. Going through and picking up soggy items that could have been safely put on a shelf is not a task you have to face if you think ahead.
Be prepared for power outages. Have plenty of fresh food and water on hand in the event you have to wait out the storm. Have a backup generator available and be sure to invest in a battery backup for your sump pump to be less vulnerable to watery mess in your basement.
Floods are the most common natural disaster that affects the most people caused by a variety of events, including heavy rain, high winds combined with rain, and even thawing snow. Just a small amount of water in your home where it doesn’t belong can cost thousands of dollars in damage. Make sure your homeowner’s insurance policy covers flooding that could possibly occur in your area. Don’t assume you have flood insurance as part of a normal insurance policy.
While the excess rain can create havoc in your homes, there are other hidden hinderances that can create a flood indoors. Make sure your water heater is in good condition, replace seals on dishwashers and utilize stainless steel supply hoses for sinks & washing machines.
If the unthinkable does occur and you suffer from a flooded home, do the right thing. It pays to call a pro! Call Buckeye Carpet Care at (614) 863-1905.
