What to Do if Flood Enters Your House

If you are living in highly urban areas like Metro Manila there are possibility of floods during typhoons and even heavy rains. Some low-lying areas tend to get flooded easily even with a short period of rain.

Flooding can be a devastating event, causing significant damage to your home and properties. Whether it’s due to heavy rainfall, a burst pipe, or a natural disaster like typhoon.

Here at Shoppiverse PH, we will enumerate how to respond and show the essential steps to take if floodwaters enter your house.

1. Ensure Safety First

Turn Off Electricity and Gas

Before anything else ensure your safety and this is the utmost priority. Before entering any flooded area, ensure that the electricity and gas supplies are turned off. This helps prevent electrocution and gas leaks. Locate your main electrical panel and gas valve to shut them off. If you can’t do this safely, contact a professional immediately.

Evacuate If Necessary

If the flood water becomes uncontrollable it is important to consider evacuating your family to evacuation areas. If the water level is rising rapidly, it may be safer to evacuate your home. Follow local evacuation orders and routes, and move to higher ground. Put all the important documents in one bag and take essential items like medications, important documents, and emergency supplies with you.

2. Document the Damage

Take Photos and Videos

Documenting the extent of the damage is crucial for insurance claims. You can use your phone or camera to take clear photos and videos of all affected areas and items. Make sure to capture different angles and close-ups.

Keep Records

Detailed records will help with insurance claims and repairs. Write down the date and time of the flood, and keep a record of all damaged items, including descriptions and estimated values.

3. Remove Water Safely

Flood waters pose different types of dangers such as bacteria or viruses that mix with the water. Aside from that there are also sharp objects like broken glass, nails, and alike that can cause injury. Before getting into the flood water make sure to wear boots to protect your feet.

Use a Pump or Wet Vacuum

Only use electrical equipment if you’re certain it’s safe. Use a sump pump or wet vacuum to remove standing water. If you don’t have these, contact a professional water removal service.

There are some good wet vacuums that you can purchase online in shopee or lazada.

You can use shovel, broomstick and dust pan to remove small solid debris before completely drying out your floor.

Mop Up Excess Water

Removing as much water as possible helps prevent further damage and mold growth. Use mops and towels to soak up any remaining water. After mopping up you can use an electric fan to completely dry up the water.

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4. Dry Out Your Home

Moisture can cause damage to your home molds and bacteria can easily grow in moist environment.

Increase Air Circulation

Proper ventilation helps speed up the drying process and prevents mold. Open windows and doors, and use fans and dehumidifiers to help dry out your home.

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Remove Wet Items

Clothes, carpets, wood cabinets, and furniture that has been soaked in the flood must be taken outside to dry. Because these items can harbor mold and bacteria that can cause disease and further damage your house. If some of the items cannot be dried up and cleaned, they should be disposed immediately.

5. Clean and Disinfect

After the flood, you should clean and disinfect to avoid getting disease from the things that has been soaked in the flood.

Use Cleaning Solutions

Remove first the big debris of trash like plastic, bottles, chunks of wood et. and put it inside a sack, once this is done you need to sweep the floor using a broomstick and dustpan.

Cleaning and disinfecting help eliminate bacteria and prevent mold growth. Clean all surfaces with a mixture of water and bleach or a commercial disinfectant. Pay special attention to areas that were submerged.

Dispose of Contaminated Items

Some items can’t be safely cleaned and should be discarded. Safely dispose of items like carpets, mattresses, and upholstered furniture if they are heavily soaked. You might spend more on cleaning services instead of buying a new one.

6. Contact Your Insurance Company

If your house is under insurance you can file a claim for the damage it costs. Promptly filing a claim helps you get the necessary funds for repairs. Contact your insurance company to report the flood and start the claims process. Provide them with your documentation, photos, and videos.

Staying in touch with your insurance adjuster ensures your claim is processed quickly.

Keep a record of all communications with your insurance company and follow up regularly.

7. Plan for Repairs and Restoration

Hire Professionals

Professional restoration services can ensure your home is properly repaired and safe to live in. Look for reputable contractors and water damage restoration companies. Get estimates and references before hiring.

Prevent Future Flooding

Taking preventive measures can help protect your home from future floods. Consider cleaning the gutter and drainage to prevent flooding due to trash that blocks your drainage system.

Consider installing sump pumps, and backflow valves, and waterproofing your basement. Improve drainage around your home and consider raising electrical outlets and appliances.

In summary:

Dealing with a flood in your home can be a daunting task, but taking these steps can help minimize damage and ensure a safer, quicker recovery. Remember to prioritize safety, document everything for your insurance claim, and seek professional help for extensive damage and repairs. By being prepared and knowing what to do, you can better protect your home and family from the impacts of flooding.