4 Ways To Prepare Your Home for a Storm

4/6/2018 (Permalink)

If you live in an area known to be vulnerable to flooding, such as Northeast Dallas, TX, it’s important to educate yourself about the risks ahead of time so that you’re prepared for the worst. For your personal safety it is critical to do the following:

• Have an emergency preparedness kit in your home
• Know where emergency shelters are located
• Understand basic safety rules for navigating flood water
• Evacuate when instructed to do so

Flooding can also cause a lot of water damage to personal property, but you can often minimize the harm done by preparing your home in advance. Here are four ways to prepare your home for a severe storm expected to cause flooding.

1. Move Furniture and Electronics to Upper Floors

If the lower stories of your home are in danger of being inundated with flood water, move electronics, important documents and valuable furniture to an upper story. If you have any furniture outside, this should also be moved indoors where it is less likely to be swept away. If you are already in a flooded building, do not touch any electrical devices while standing in water or you could be electrocuted.

2. Turn Off Gas and Electricity

If you have access to a main switch or valve to turn off your gas and electricity, you should do this to avoid any fires or explosions in your home during the flood. If you have any fuel tanks, these should be anchored.

3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts

Make sure your home’s drainage systems are clear. This will help to ensure rainwater can be directed away from your home.

4. Waterproof Your Basement

You won’t have time to do it at the last minute, but if you live in an area that experiences flooding, it’s a good idea to waterproof your basement. This can be done by painting a waterproofing sealant available in Northeast Dallas, TX, directly to the concrete. Installing a battery-powered sump pump that kicks in if there’s a power failure is also a good idea.

You can prepare your home for a storm so that the damage done by flood water is minimized. Follow these basic steps to protect your property.

For more information, please visit us athttp://www.SERVPROnortheastdallas.com.