As the days begin to lengthen, we know that warmer temperatures aren’t far behind. But spring also brings various conditions like severe weather, heavy rains and warmer temperatures that produce snow melt – conditions that can increase the risk of flooding. Not only can flooding can create suddenly dangerous physical conditions, but it can also cause extensive damage to homes and other structures that can be costly to repair.
You can act now to increase your preparedness and reduce the risk of unnecessary damage and expensive renovation costs. Here are some simple steps you can take to keep your property as safe as possible in the event of localized flooding:
- Consider flood insurance. Even if your home is not located inside an official flood zone, talk with your insurance agent about the cost of insuring against a flood. Just a few inches of water in your home can cause thousands of dollars in damage.
- Elevate your utilities. In basements – or on main levels in homes without basements – elevate critical utilities such as electrical panels and sockets, wiring, appliances, propane tanks, and HVAC systems.
- Install a high water alarm. These simple alarms can minimize water damage by acting as an early warning system. When the unit senses water, it triggers the control panel to sound an alarm in your home or via phone.
- Check your home’s foundation. If your basement “damp,” consider an exterior foundation waterproofing system. A French drain system consists of drainage pipes that are installed around the footer of the foundation, carrying water away from this area.
- Install a sump pump. A pump is placed in a specially designed pit below the main surface of the basement. The floatation device on the pump is triggered when water reaches a certain level, and it is pumped outside your home through a hose.
- Clean the gutters. Leaves and debris can accumulate in gutters and downspouts, obstructing the flow of water from your roof. By routinely checking your gutter system as part of routine fall maintenance, you can keep water flowing away from the foundation.
You’ll also want to keep your family as safe as possible, so here are 4 things you can do now – before you find yourself in a flooding situation where you must act immediately:
- Learn how to turn off the main power breaker and gas and water valves. Practice routinely so you’ll know how to do this in an emergency.
- Develop a family emergency preparedness plan. You’ll find detailed instructions plus printable forms to complete, here.
- Stock up on supplies such as battery-operated flashlights (and extra fresh batteries), canned food, drinking water, and medication. Store enough for three days.
- Remember to include family members who do not live with you in your planning. And include your pets, too – they are depending on you!
Even if flooding has not occurred in your area, it’s a good idea to routinely inspect your home for unwanted water and moisture. If not addressed, moisture can lead to mold and potential health problems. Give Restoration 1 of West Denver a call at 72O-605-2994 to assess the full extent of water damage.