If you live in a flood-prone area, here are 5 valuable home-saving tips to consider.
Floods can strike at any time and without notice, but there are steps you can do to avoid or mitigate the damage and keep your house secure from flooding. If you’ve been in a similar scenario previously, keep in mind what worked and what didn’t. Use that knowledge the next time to avoid further harm to your home and goods.
When you know that flooding is likely in your neighborhood, the most important action to take is to prepare; start now by following these 5 tips to keep your property safe from floods. So you don’t have to be concerned about your belongings when the next big storm hits.
What causes flash floods?
Flooding is a major issue in Pakistan. Every year, floods kill hundreds of people and displace millions. The Pakistani government has taken strides to strengthen flood management infrastructure in the country, but much more needs to be done.
A flood can be caused by a variety of factors, the most common of which being severe rains, melting snow, dam or levee failure, and coastal storms. The first step in being prepared and keeping your house safe is to understand what can trigger a flood.
Flooding can be a severe problem if you reside in a high-rainfall area. Storms and strong downpours can cause enormous amounts of water to enter your home through windows, doors, and other outside openings.
List of 5 Flood-Resistant Tips for Your Home
Follow these 5 measures to keep your home safe from flooding this season to keep your property safe from floods. These ideas will assist you in detecting flood damage before it occurs. So, if it does occur in your house or on your land, you may take steps to prevent or limit the damage.
- Keeping important documents in plastic bags
If you live in a flood-prone location, you should take extra care to keep your home and belongings safe. One method is to keep important documents in plastic bags. In the event of a flood, this will keep them dry and secure.
Another thing you can do is keep an essentials bag on hand at all times. So, if a flash flood or tornado warning is issued, you’ll be able to flee swiftly. Food, water, prescriptions, and first-aid materials, as well as pet necessities, should be included in the pack.
It’s also a good idea to have ladders ready for taller homes, fire extinguishers on every story, and clotheslines erected so that garments may dry outside.
Finally, keep in mind not to overload electrical outlets with plugs or cords, as power may go out during a storm, and you want everything to be accessible.
- Verify your insurance coverage.
Check your insurance coverage before you do anything else. Flood insurance may be required if you reside in a high-risk location. Even if you don’t live in a high-risk location, you should review your insurance to determine what is and isn’t covered. Most plans, for example, will cover the expense of replacing your property with something comparable.
However, if you have items that are irreplaceable or emotional to you, be sure you have adequate coverage for them in addition to the cost of rebuilding your home with something comparable. You should also double-check to see if your home is in a Special Flood Hazard Area.
- Increase the value of appliances and electronics
If you live in a flood-prone location, you must take precautions to secure your home and property. Elevating appliances and devices is one technique to accomplish this. This will aid in the prevention of damage if floodwaters enter your property.
To protect the floor, place plastic under the appliance or electronics. However, avoid using PVC-containing products because they emit harmful compounds when submerged in water.
The next stage is to stack boards on top of these elevated things, adding more boards every couple of inches until they reach their maximum height. You should choose heavy-duty materials such as plywood or particle board, which are stronger than regular wood.
- Put up water-resistant drywall.
If you live in a flood-prone location, you should take extra precautions to secure your home. Installing water-resistant drywall is one method. This drywall has a waterproof covering that keeps it from swelling or breaking down when it comes into touch with water.
It’s also mold and mildew resistant, so it may help keep your house healthy and allergen-free. Just make sure to properly install it. Some builders will actually use the material on both sides of the wall for further protection.
They’ll connect it normally on one side, then attach thin strips at 8-inch intervals along the top border of the studs to create a pocket that fits over the first layer. When installing this sort of drywall, make sure not to cut any of the pockets off. The strips must be flush with the surfaces of both layers.
- Keep an eye out for road closures.
Heavy rains increase the risk of flash floods, so be aware of any potential road closures in your region. Keep an eye out for updates on local news and weather reports, and if you notice water on the road, turn around and find another route.
Consider installing a sump pump to remove excess water and protect your home from flooding. Install flood sensors as well. Which will notify you if there is a problem with the level of water in your home.
Finally, keep a few days’ worth of supplies, such as food, fresh drinking water, batteries, and wet-weather clothing, in a designated spot outside your home. This manner, you can endure flooding no matter where you are.
Conclusion
If you intend to move everything yourself and find yourself forgetting something or struggling to find it in the midst of chaos, take some deep breaths, calm down your speed, and attempt the above-mentioned techniques.
Some may appear apparent, but they can make all the difference when a calamity comes unexpectedly. The majority of the suggestions we’ve provided above are easy and can be implemented right away. Just remember to follow these guidelines and be a good water-preparer before the next flood.
