Top Ways to Stay Dry During a Flood | SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua
6/27/2024 (Permalink)
We experience all kinds of weather patterns here in upstate New York, and most of them include some type of precipitation. Heavy rain in the spring and summer accompanies thunderstorms, while the winter season gives way to extremely snowy conditions that can leave us all hunkered down in our houses.
Whenever a significant amount of water is present, the risk of flash flooding conditions increases. While the specific flood zones can’t always be predicted, you can prepare for the possibility as soon as the watch or warning is issued so you can stay dry.
Preparing Outside the Home
Floodwater will affect the exterior of your home first as it starts to flow onto your property, so it’s best to start outside. Be sure your gutters and downspouts are clear and ready to pull water off your roof and away from your home. Get your car inside the garage, and start tidying up your yard.
Tie down anything that could potentially be swept away by fast-moving water, like patio furniture or grills. If you have the ability to get utilities and service equipment off the ground, take the time to raise and anchor equipment like water meters, heat pumps or HVAC equipment.
Preparing Inside the Home
Once your property is ready to weather the storm, head inside and start getting your lowest levels ready. Pull any valuable possessions or soft materials out of your basement or lowest level and store them higher up for the time being. If you have the time, check your foundation for any cracks or gaps that you can seal before the rain starts to fall.
Check your sump pump to ensure it is working, and make sure any drains that you have in your floor are clear and ready to work just in case. If water does start flowing into your home, don’t panic!
Simply stay above the water line and take pictures as the situation develops. This can help ensure a smooth insurance claims process during your restoration. After the water stops flowing in, give us a call.
What to Do After a Flood
Floodwater can be hazardous and can be carrying all sorts of things like chemicals or sharp objects, so stay out of the water while you wait for us to show up.
Our team will come with the proper safety gear so we can navigate your home confidently and safely. We will extract the standing water and dry up any lingering moisture while we work on saving any damaged possessions or soaked material like upholstery or carpets.
Once everything is dry, we can address any leftover damage caused by the water. Flood water can damage walls, floors and ceilings in seconds, but rest assured that we will restore and repair everything so your home is brought back to its pre-flood condition quickly and efficiently.
Flood damage should be cleaned up quickly. Call SERVPRO of Victor/Canandaigua right away so we can get to work for you.