During a Flood: How to Prepare and Respond

Written by Professional Restoration on April 15, 2016. Posted in Water Damage.

Do you know how to prepare and respond during a flood?

For many disasters, prevention is the ideal solution to limiting damages and as such, many of our posts have been dedicated to these topics. Sometimes however, there may be instances when you don’t have much of a chance to prepare your home. This can be devastating for your home or business.

Last summer, Colorado experienced a 100 year rain storm which caused major flood damage to homes and businesses all over the state. The total cost for the statewide damage reached $2 billion. Much of this had to come from home and business owners’ pockets, as many people did not carry flood insurance.

We encourage you to take a look at our previous post regarding prevention of flood damage, but if you end up in an emergency situation, here are some last minute steps you can take to quickly respond to a flood.

“If you end up in an emergency situation

here are some last minute steps you

can take to quickly respond to a flood.”

Personal safety is most important during a flood. Flood waters can rise quickly and you need to be prepared to evacuate quickly. Be sure you know several routes of escape should you need to evacuate. If possible, grab a battery-powered radio and tune in to a local station for emergency instructions.

If you are stuck in your house during rising waters and cannot evacuate, move to the second floor or if necessary, the roof. Take warm clothing, a flashlight and portable radio. Do not try to swim to safety. Stay put and wait for a rescue team.

Last Minute Prep for Your Home

Turn off Utilities

If you need to evacuate, be sure to turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve. Be extra careful when touching electrical equipment during a flood. Do not touch any electrical equipment unless it is in a dry area and you are wearing rubber gloves and rubber-soled shoes.

Move Valuables

If there is time, move valuable papers, jewelry, clothing, and any other important possessions to upper floors.

Obtain Clean Water

Fill your bathtubs, sinks and any jugs with clean water. If your water becomes shut off or you cannot access clean water, this step will allow you drinking water

Board Up Windows

If you do not have storm shutters, be sure to board your windows to protect your home from broken glass.

Using Sandbags

Sandbags take time to fill, but can help redirect water and debris flow away from your home. You’ll want to fill sandbags half-full of sand or soil and then fold the top of the bag down and rest the bag on its folded top. Sandbags are only meant for waters up to two feet.

Clean up and Restoration

Hindsight is 20/20 and in many cases you may not have time to prepare your home. If you need help restoring your home or business after a major flood, you can count on Professional Restoration to help you get back on your feet. If you experience flood damage, call on our experienced team to schedule a free estimate for repairs 303-922-4001.

Call Professional Restoration Today!

The Professional Restoration team’s specialty is in offering complete, in-house restoration services to address any type of property damage. Through our decades of experience, we are able to help with everything from the restoration of water or fire damage, to mold removal, and reconstruction services.

We understand that living and working through the restoration process with a remediation and water restoration company can be an incredible headache. That’s why the team at Professional Restoration will be at your side every step of the way, including dealing with your insurance company to ensure the process is manageable and equitable for you. Our staff has decades of experience navigating the intricacies of insurance claims and we’re prepared to put our expertise to work for you. When you’re ready to look for a commercial restoration company, consider Professional Restoration for our reliable processes, certified staff members, and superior customer service practices.

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(303) 922-4001