With the arrival of spring, most of us welcome the warmer temperatures and begin looking forward to summer vacations and barbecues. However, the onset of nice weather also brings risks that require preparedness and planning.

The biggest among these is spring flooding. This can happen as a result of the spring thaw, when snow melt creates a large amount of runoff water in its place. And of course, spring showers can bring inches of precipitation in a short amount of time, compounding the problem. The ongoing effects of climate change are also major contributors to the increasing severity of natural disasters.

Here are some ways that you and your family can plan ahead:

• Residential flooding is often not covered by standard insurance. If you live in an area where you may be at risk, taking the time to investigate your insurance coverage is prudent.
• When buying a house, look into whether flooding has occurred in the past, and plan accordingly.
• Inspect your home and make sure it is prepared to weather a storm. Cracks in foundation, plumbing systems and drains that are not to code and faulty sump pumps can all make a bad situation much worse.
• Check that your roof and eaves are cleared and able to drain properly, and that downspouts are draining water at least two meters away from your house, or invest in a rain barrel to catch runoff from your roof.
• Clearing snow away from a building’s foundation can also help mitigate the effects of snow melt.

Pre-flood safety:

• If a flood warning is in effect, shut off electricity in area of your home vulnerable to flooding.
• Move valuables to the safest place possible.
• Make sure that your sump pump is in good working order, and that basement floor drains are cleared.
• Put sealant around basement windows and install flood shields or barriers where necessary.
• Raise appliances and electronics above water line to avoid damage.

Flood safety:

• During a suspected flood event, evacuate areas subject to flooding and find higher ground to wait out the worst of the storm.
• Never walk or drive through a flooded road. Six inches of water is enough to sweep a grown man off his feet, and two feet is enough to offset a vehicle.

Post-flood safety:.

• Do not return to your home until authorities have given the clearance to do so.
• Do not enter a property if the power to your home has not been shut off or inspected.
• Check for structural damage before entering a property, such as buckled walls or holes in the floor.
• Do not turn on or use any appliances that have been damaged by flood water.
• Record damage with photographs or video if possible.
• Check with local authorities whether regular water supply is safe to use and drink.

Clean-up safety:

• Gloves and masks are recommended during the clean-up process.
• Wet contents must be removed immediately (within 24 to 48 hours) before mold can grow and spread. Clean and disinfect all areas contaminated by flood water and discard contaminated items entirely.
• In the case of an extreme flood, expert services may be required. 

Click here to see our Spring 2021 Flood Safety flyer. 

For more product recommendations and expert services, contact your Hazmasters rep today!