Tips For Flood Proofing Your Home

10/20/2021 (Permalink)

Flood-Proofing Tips for Your Home

Floods can happen almost anywhere and are among the most costly and common natural disasters in the United States. If you own a home in DFW, you’ll want to protect it. By being prepared, as outlined below to flood-proof, you can prevent costly damage to your home and the need for expensive repairs in the future. Please don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Southwest Dallas at 214-463-5880 if you do happen to find your home in the Dallas Metroplex flooded.

1. Reposition Indoor Circuitry

Find out what the expected flood level is in your area, and then do an inspection of all the electrical equipment in your home, including switches, sockets and wiring. These should all be raised to at least a foot above the flood level. Also, make sure any other indoor heating or cooling appliances, such as water heaters and air conditioners, are positioned to sit well above the flood level.

2. Move Outdoor Equipment

Any outdoor equipment like central AC units, generators or fuel tanks should be raised up above the flood level and anchored securely. Generators should never sit on the ground, as they can fill up with water during a flood and become unusable. A fuel tank that isn't properly anchored can break away and spill its contents all over the surrounding area.

3. Make Final Preparations

You can still take flood safety steps as the storm approaches. First, make sure all downspouts and gutters have been cleared. Next, try to get everything that could be damaged, such as rugs, electronics, furniture and other belongings, to higher ground. Either take them upstairs to the second story or raise them off the floor. Also, elevate all major appliances on concrete blocks and shut off the electricity at the breaker box.

Following the flood safety tips outlined above will go a long way toward keeping your home secure during a major storm. With a little safety planning ahead of time, a great deal of damage and expense can be prevented.