Arizona is no stranger when it comes to floods. During the monsoon season, flash floods are frequent, causing major damage in some instances. Floods can be quite alarming because it’s hard to know just when and where they will happen. Even the best-prepared homes and offices might still receive heavy damage from a flood.
When you experience a flood, there are certain things you can do that may make a difference in how devastating the effects of the flood are. Here are some tips we suggest you follow as first steps to take when flooding occurs.
Focus on the health and well being of family members first.
- Tend to injuries and or sickness that may have occurred as a result of flooding.
- Stay away from floodwaters that may be contaminated. Raw sewage and oils have been known to mix with floodwaters making them extremely unsanitary.
- Throw away any food that may have come in contact with floodwaters.
- Check with neighbors to ensure their health and safety.
Remember to be safe when entering a damaged structure.
- If your home or office is still surrounded by floodwaters, it’s better to wait for those waters to subside before entering.
- When structures are heavily damaged from a flood, it’s probably better to stay out of them until local officials have declared them safe.
- Avoid fallen power lines and be sure to report them right away.
- It’s much safer to use battery powered flashlights or lanterns when first inspecting a damaged structure to avoid fires.
- Use sturdy shoes – foot injuries are some of the most common injuries following a disaster such as a flood.
Take steps to be ready for restoration.
- Check for damage to the sewage system and waterlines.
- Take pictures of damage for insurance claims.
- If your basement was flooded, it’s best to pump out the water gradually. Experts suggest pumping about one-third of the water per day to avoid structural damage.
- Call Best Choice Restoration for an immediate response. We’ll send a team right away to assess damage and make suggestions about what to focus on first.
In an emergency situation, such as a flood, it can be easy to get wrapped up in emotion and not think clearly. You might find yourself focused more on trying to save possessions, putting the safety of yourself and others at risk. Don’t take chances you don’t need to. Your first priority should be your family and neighbors. Be sure to give Best Choice Restoration a call so we can get to work restoring your home or office to the way it was before the flood.