As we approach the season of heavy rains and potential flooding, it's crucial to know how to protect yourself and your property from the impending floodwaters. For over 25 years, Rytech Restoration has been a trusted name in water damage and disaster cleanup, providing expert services to countless homes and businesses throughout the US.
Over 75% of Presidential disaster declarations are issued due to flooding. While more dramatic natural calamities may draw more media coverage, inundation by water from one source or another leads the statistics for damage and dislocation in this country. Information about positive steps to take in case of a flood is widely available and applicable to scenarios in most locales. However, now and then it's helpful to take the reverse approach and pass along advice from various experts about what not to do.
"One common mistake people make during floods is underestimating the power and speed of moving water. It's vital to avoid walking or driving through floodwaters, as they can be deceptively dangerous. Instead, seek higher ground and stay informed through reliable local weather updates."
David Ayers, Director of Operations
Our seasoned water damage specialists have seen it all and are here to share essential tips to keep you and your property safe during flooding and heavy rain storms. Here are some things to avoid when floodwaters threaten:
- Being out of touch. If potential flood conditions are present, keep a radio or television on and tuned to a channel that provides current coverage and emergency information.
- Engaging in denial and delay. If official warnings are issued by authorities, don't put off taking proactive steps to ensure your safety. Past experience with floods that didn't materialize doesn't mean you'll get lucky again.
- Not having a plan. Every household should have an evacuation plan including routes (and alternate routes) to get out of the area as well as the location of nearest high ground for emergency escape.
- Staying home to “save the house.” Occupying a house during a significant flood does little or nothing to prevent water inundation nor limit the extent of damage. What it does do is expose the occupant to unnecessary dangers and often require first responders to rescue the trapped individual if/when things get really bad.
- Wading into floodwater. Moving floodwater is more powerful than you think, deeper than you expect and usually highly toxic due to raw sewage and chemicals picked up along the way. Stay out of it if at all possible.
- Coming home too soon. Even if local conditions appear to be moderate, don't return home before an official announcement that it's safe. Severe weather remote from your location may still swell rivers and lakes and trigger a flash flood.
- Entering a wet house with power on. Electrical power may still be live in flooded houses. Fatal electrocutions are a frequent post-flood danger. Contact an electrician to disconnet utility power before entering the house.
If you've experienced flood damage at your home or business, don't hesitate to reach out to Rytech Restoration today. Our team of certified experts is ready to provide immediate assistance and ensure your property is Rytech-dry in the shortest amount of time possible. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive flood damage restoration services and how we can help you recover swiftly and safely.
