Flooded Basement: Safety first!

What to do and not do when experiencing a flooded basement.

A flooded basement is a stressful situation for any homeowner. Basement floods can be the result of burst pipes, heavy rains and storms, spring snowmelts, leaking roofs, sewer backups, sump pump failures and many more. When you are experiencing a basement flood you need to first address yours and your home’s safety.

Flood Dangers

Even small floods can be dangerous, your main concern should be if water levels reach electrical components, outlets or electric box. The risk of being shocked or electrocuted is high if you enter any of the flooded areas. Your first step is to turn off the main power supply if it is safe to do so. DO NOT switch the electricity off with wet hands or while standing in water! You also need to be aware of slippery areas to avoid any slips and falls.

There are steps you can take even before the restoration company arrives that can reduce and complications and additional damage.

Steps to take:

• First stop the water source. A plumber can assist with broken pipes, malfunctioning sump pumps, plugged toilets and sinks and more.
• Make sure that your HVAC is set to moderate temperatures to avoid spreading any contaminants.
• Switch your HVAC blower into the “continuous on” position.
• Promote air circulation by turning any fans on or other equipment available in your home, like exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathrooms. This allows moisture and humidity to be sucked out of the affected areas.
• Open windows and curtains to allow air and sun to enter the rooms. You are trying to create ventilation and increase air flow to the area.
• Unplug any electrical appliances and devices that are in the affected areas.
• You can also start moving small furniture and other items so you can speed up the restoration process when the restoration crew arrives.
• Pull up any curtains and draperies to avoid water marks.
• Remove household belongings from floors to avoid floor stains on carpets.
• Wash your hands thoroughly after handling wet items.

What to NOT to Do:

• Don’t use and type of home vacuum to remove water, this runs a risk for electrical shocks.
• Do not use newspaper to cover the floor or any traffic area path, you are risking to get ink stains.
• Try to stay off the carpets to minimize additional damage

Removing water as fast as possible from the affected areas will halt any further damage. FloodMasters offers 24/7 lighting fast emergency water damage restoration response and our first priority is to minimize damage and reduce the need for renovations. We understand how stressful this situation is for the home owner and we are there to assist you with not only the water restoration process but also your insurance claim.

Call us now at 416-422-2022.