Flood Damage - Nine Steps To Help Minimize the Inevitable

If you've ever experienced the aftermath of a flood to your home or commercial property, you know how devastating and expensive the damage can be. But there are a number of proven methods you can use to ward off some of the negative effects of too much water.

The very first step to take, when you discover one may be heading your way, is to prepare quickly. There is not a moment to waste.

Here are nine more safety steps you can take before one strikes to minimize destruction:

1. If you know you are living in an area which is prone to flooding, try raising your home up on pillars as reinforcement against water hazards.

2. Again, if you know ahead of time your home is located in an area which could have excessive water from time to time, it is mandatory you have your electricity unit and HVAC units at a higher level than the water would ever reach.

3. In times of excessive water build up, drains can quickly become blocked causing back up. The way to prevent this ahead of time is to install a check valve on any sewer tap.

4. Much like a firewall on your computer helps keep out viruses, a "floodwall" will help prevent water from coming into your building.

5. If you have a basement in your home, find a way to seal all of its walls. This will go a long way to prevent leakage.

6. If you know there is a strong possibility of a flood in your area, be sure to tune in to your local emergency television or radio station to keep abreast of its progress.

7. If you discover flash flooding is heading towards your home, do not hesitate but move to higher ground ASAP. Flash flooding is extremely dangerous because it appears very quickly without much warning.

8. If you have the time before leaving your home, make sure to move any valuable possessions to higher ground or your second story or attic if you have one. Also, turn off any utilities from the main power switch outside. Unplug any electrical items inside to prevent damage and electrical shocks.

9. One of the best measures you can take before a flood is to obtain water damage insurance. This step will go a long way to help you get back on your feet once the flood has passed by.

Flooding is certainly no friend to anyone, and it almost always leaves a trail of unavoidable damage in its path. But, by adhering to as many of these safety steps as you possibly can, you will go a long way in preventing a good deal of damage from any flood that hits your most valuable possession - your home.