The Basement in My Alamo Home is Flooding. What Do I Do?

3/19/2020 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Jackson/Crockett County has your back during a flood.

A basement can flood at any time, flooding typically occurs due to heavy rainfall. Basements are inherently prone to flooding since they are the lowest level of the building, typically built partially or entirely below surface level. 

How do I prepare my basement/home for a possible flood?

• Have a qualified professional elevate your furnace, water heater, and electrical panel if these are in an area prone to flooding.
• Install “check valves” in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains.
• Seal wall in your basement with a waterproofing compound to avoid seepage.

What do I need to do if I notice my home/basement are starting to flood?

• Never walk through standing water. You never know if there is electricity running through it.
• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.
• Disconnect electric appliances.
• Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Do not walk through moving water. Even 6 inches of water and have a very powerful current.

What should I do after the flood in my home/basement?

• Listen for news reports to learn if the community’s water supply is safe to drink.
• Avoid floodwaters. Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged.
• Stay out of any buildings surrounded by floodwaters.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
• Call SERVPRO to help you get your home mitigated and restored.

SERVPRO of Jackson/Crockett County is highly trained and has the most experience in flood/water damage. We can help you get back in your home. “Faster to any size disaster.”