5 Things to Do to Protect Your Home Against Flooding

In Billings and the surrounding areas, flooding can occur due to heavy rains and melting snow. When a flood warning is issued it is important to know what steps you can take to prepare your home and business against the heavy waters and potential damage.

During most flood warnings, there will not be a lot of time to make updates to protect your home, but there are several precautionary measures you can take to keep your home safe from floodwaters as possible. The list below is all items that can be done within an hour of learning about the flood warning.

1. Move All Furniture

When dealing with flooding in a residential home, clearing furniture off of the floor in basements and first floor levels will keep larger items that may not dry out quickly as dry as possible. Furniture includes:

• Mattresses and box-springs
• Couches and love seats
• Wooden furniture that would warp if it gets wet

2. Clean Drains, Downspouts, And Gutters

If it is safe to do so, check your downspouts, gutters, and drains to make sure they are clear of any debris. Look for things like leaves, grass, mud, and dirt. All of these could cause your drainage system to back up and create additional flooding.

Downspouts and gutters should be securely attached to the home and clear of cracks or holes. This is also an ongoing home maintenance project that requires attention each year. Check for any issues and have them repaired immediately to prevent future problems.

3. Check On Your Sump Pump

Your sump pump is your best defense against floodwaters. Check that power is running to the pump, along with a backup generator in the case of a power failure. Sump pumps should be in full working order with no issues to the well or basin.

Once again, routine maintenance is best performed on the sump pump each year to ensure the best performance out of the machine.

Move Area Rugs

If there are any rugs in your home, roll them up and store them on higher floors. Rugs that get wet during a flood are at risk of growing mold and mildew which can lead to additional issues and problems in the home.

If a rug is too large to roll and move, be prepared to dry it out quickly and thoroughly. Large fans and dehumidifiers will help in this process.

3. Check On Your Sump Pump

Your sump pump is your best defense against floodwaters. Check that power is running to the pump, along with a backup generator in the case of a power failure. Sump pumps should be in full working order with no issues to the well or basin.

Once again, routine maintenance is best performed on the sump pump each year to ensure the best performance out of the machine.

4. Move Area Rugs

If there are any rugs in your home, roll them up and store them on higher floors. Rugs that get wet during a flood are at risk of growing mold and mildew which can lead to additional issues and problems in the home.

If a rug is too large to roll and move, be prepared to dry it out quickly and thoroughly. Large fans and dehumidifiers will help in this process.

If Necessary, Shut Off Electricity

If you are provided enough warning before the floodwaters begin to rise, you can decide to turn off your electricity to prevent any damage to appliances, TVs, computers, or larger items including your main circuits and electrical systems.

How Alpha Omega Disaster Restoration Can Help

Even with the best planning and most notice possible, flooding can still occur and cause water damaged to areas of your home without warning. Water damage can be the cause of costly repairs if left untreated which is why it is imperative that a professional restoration company be called in at the first sign of trouble. Alpha Omega Disaster Restoration will help with water damage along with mold damage brought on by water damage.