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Steps to Reduce Flood and Water Damage
Many things can be done before a heavy rainstorm to reduce damage to home and property. This checklist can help you prepare to reduce the severity of water or a flood on your home and family.
Before a Flood
1. Move valuables to higher locations.
Get items such as irreplaceable family photo albums, personal videotapes, tax records, insurance policies and household inventories off the bottom shelves in the lower level of your home.
2. Prepare appliances for flooding.
Shut off appliances at the fuse box or breaker panel. Put freezers, washer, dryers and other appliances up on wood or cement blocks to keep the motors above the water level. If large appliances can't be moved, wrap them in polyethylene film, tying the film in place with cord or rope. The water will still get in, but most of the silt won't so cleanup will be easier.
3. Shut off electricity to areas of the home that might flood.
Shut off electrical breakers or unscrew fuses. Don't stand in water and turn off electrical switches. If this must be done, use a dry piece of wood or a plastic or rubber pole to do the switching, and stand on a block of wood or a plastic crate that doesn't conduct electricity.
4. Move hazardous materials to higher locations.
This includes paint, oil, cleaning supplies and other dangerous materials.
5. Assemble supplies in case the electricity goes off.
Gather water, food that requires no refrigeration or cooking, a non-electric can opener, a battery-powered radio and flashlight, extra batteries.
During the flood
1. Listen to the radio for further information.
2. Fill bathtubs, sinks and jugs with clean water in case water becomes contaminated.
3. Move valuable household possessions to the upper floors or to safe ground if time permits.
4. If you are instructed by authorities, turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve.
After a flood
Don't return home until authorities have indicated it is safe. When entering buildings, use extreme caution.
1. Turn off electricity. Stand on a dry spot or on a dry wooden block or plastic crate. Use a wooden stick or plastic pipe to pull the fuse box handle to off. Pull out the main fuses, and unscrew each circuit fuse.
2. Turn off gas. Leave your home immediately and call the gas company if you smell the putrid odor of leaking gas. Lanterns, torches, electrical sparks and cigarettes could cause an explosive fire if there is a leak. Do not turn on any light switches.
3. Make sure water is safe. Listen for announcements about the local water supply. Private water wells need to be tested and disinfected after floodwaters recede. Water that might be contaminated should be boiled at least 10 minutes.
4. Make sure food is safe. Frozen or refrigerated foods warmed above 40 degrees for more than two hours may not be safe to eat. This includes meats, milk products, eggs, casseroles and other foods. Discard anything that is mouldy or has an unusual odour or look.
5. Stay healthy. Wash hands with soap and water often. Get a tetanus booster before working in floodwater. Disinfect dishes, appliances and other materials that may have been contaminated by floodwater.
6. Call your insurance agent. If your insurance covers the damage, your agent will tell you when an adjuster will contact you.
7. List damage and take photos or videotape as you clean. You'll need complete records for insurance claims, applications for disaster assistance and income tax deductions.
8. Take care of yourself and your family. Accept support from family, friends and others. Talk about your feelings to release tension. Discuss the situation with children honestly and openly. Get proper nutrition and rest. Pace yourself, and take one step at a time. Don't be afraid to get help.
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