Flood Protection Tips
Author: Donna Conneely
There are several things a prudent home or business owner can do to minimize damage from a flood. Many of them are simple and easy to implement, while others may be more expensive and need to be thought out well in advance.
One of the most basic flood protection steps is to install one-way valves on pipes and drains. Called “check valves”, these devices will prevent water from coming into the building from the raging floodwaters outside. In many cases, this water is full of chemical and biological hazards, so the importance of excluding it from the building is critical. The same valves can also offer protection in the case of a main drain clog or water main break.
FEMA provides tips to help protect people and property from future flooding. Visit their website at FloodSmart.gov for more information
It is a good practice to check your drains regularly. In the event of a major flooding event, clear drains may not be able to fully remove the massive amounts of water, but blocked drains will surely add to the problem in a big way. Some buildings have drainage ditches around or near the property. If these are kept clear, the property will have a much better chance to emerge from the flood with minimal damage. Putting this task on your regular maintenance schedule will pay off with dividends during a flood.
Another simple yet critical step is to store all important items in the highest spot available. Electronic equipment, important papers, family photos- all these things should be kept on the second floor if possible. If that is not a possibility, the items can be safely stored on a high shelf or in watertight containers. After a flood or other disaster strikes, it will be important to be able to access the paperwork needed to make an insurance claim. Of course, family photos are irreplaceable, so they should be protected from harm at all times.
Sandbags are not very effective against severe flooding, but having them on hand, along with some plywood and strong nails, can help minimize the damage brought by a hurricane or severe storm. Nowadays, we generally have some warning when a big storm is on the way, but often there is not enough time to go to the DIY stores to buy supplies — if the stores still have what you need.
A business property is particularly vulnerable to extensive and expensive damage from floods. Fortunately, modern flood protection measures can make a huge difference. Today’s flood panels can be custom-fitted to any property and some are passive devices, meaning you do not need to do anything to implement them during a disaster. Some flood insurance policies will deduct part of the cost of this equipment from your premium. Flood panels and other flood protection measures can prevent a disaster that can disrupt, destroy, or even bankrupt a business.
Thinking ahead, having a basic flood protection plan, and conducting regular flood mitigation maintenance inspections — all these measures can reduce misery, expense, and damage during and after a flood.
