Be Prepared: Flood Tips For Your Southeastern Vermont Home

11/15/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Windham & Windsor Counties is available 24/7 to make flood damage "Like it never even happened."

As we all know, it is much easier to prepare for a disaster before it occurs. Of course, we are all challenged with tasks, obligations and distractions in our everyday life which can prevent us from taking precautions following a disaster, in this case happens to be flooding. Below are helpful tips from Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Before the Flood

• Have a qualified professional elevate your furnace, water heater and electrical panel if susceptible to flooding.
• Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home or business.
• Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to help avoid seepage.

During the Flood

• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. 
• Disconnect electrical appliances.
• Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Do not walk-through moving water. Even six inches of moving water can make you fall.

After The Flood

• 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 building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

Once your property is deemed to be clear, contact SERVPRO of Windham & Windsor Counties who are prepared to assist with flood damage restoration and water mitigation. We're here to help!