Expert Tips to Prevent a Flooded House Floods can cause extensive damage and devastation to your home. While no area is completely immune, homes near oceans, lakes, rivers, and streams are particularly vulnerable. While you can’t control nature, there are proactive steps you can take to protect your property and minimize the risk of flooding.

Flood-Proofing Your Home

Water damage can destroy your possessions and cause serious structural problems, leading to significant financial strain. Here are some measures to help limit the potential for damage,especially if you live in a flood-prone area:

1. Elevate Electrical Systems:Determine the typical and predicted flood levels in your area and raise electrical components such as wiring, switches, and outlets at least a foot above these levels. This helps prevent shocks, electrocution, and explosions when water and electricity meet.
2. Secure Fuel Tanks:Anchor any fuel tanks stored in your basement. For propane tanks, ensure they are shut off and unplug devices and appliances connected to them. Unsecured tanks can be moved by floodwaters, causing ruptures or broken supply lines,
   leading to dangerous spills.
3. Waterproof Your Basement:Inspect your basement for cracks and seal any openings. Apply waterproof coatings or install a waterproof lining. A sump pump with battery backup is essential, as it will remove water even during a power outage.
4. Relocate Important Items:When a flood alert is issued, move furniture, valuables, and important documents to a higher floor. Store critical documents like insurance policies and birth certificates in a waterproof box.
5. Secure Loose Items:Trash cans, lawn furniture, and other unsecured items can be easily swept away by floodwaters. Secure them or move them to higher ground or protected areas of your home.
6. Clean Gutters and Downspouts:Ensure gutters and downspouts are clear of leaves and debris to allow proper water drainage. This helps prevent water from pooling around your home and causing basement flooding.
7. Home Modifications:Elevating your entire home may not be practical, but you can modify your basement or lowest floor to allow floodwaters to pass through. Create openings in the foundation for water to enter and exit, while maintaining structural
   integrity. Use water-resistant materials like terrazzo tile or non-paper-faced gypsum board to protect your furnishings.
8. Use Sandbags for Protection:Sandbags can be an effective barrier to keep water out of exposed entryways such as basement windows or garage doors. Traditional burlap sandbags work, but consider using self-inflating barriers for easier storage and placement.

Understanding Flood Zones

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) designates flood zones to assess risk levels. These zones are indicated on flood maps: high-risk areas are labeled A or V, while moderate to low-risk areas are B, C, or X. Zones labeled D have undetermined risk levels. If you live in a high-risk area, your mortgage lender will likely require you to have flood insurance.

Be Prepared for a Flood

While extreme weather events are becoming more frequent, making complete flood prevention challenging, you can reduce the risk of severe damage or injury with these steps:

• Turn off electricity at the main breaker.
• Shut off main water and gas valves.
• Stock up on supplies such as canned food, water, and flashlights
• Create an evacuation plan with escape routes and backup routes.
• Prepare your home and family as soon as a flood alert is issued.

If a flood becomes severe, evacuate to higher ground with your emergency kit, which should include at least three days’ worth of water and food, medications, cellphone chargers, and other essentials.

When Flood Damage Occurs, Contact Restoration Heroes

Restoration Heroes is a leading emergency services company in Meridian, Idaho. We offer comprehensive flood damage cleanup, including water extraction, salvaging belongings, structural drying, and debris removal. We also assist with insurance claims to ensure a smooth recovery process. Quick action can prevent hazards like mold, structural issues, and exposure to contaminated water. If you experience a flooded house, request our services online or call 208-872-4789.