What to Do After a Flood Strikes Your Property
The Spokane, Washington, area and the Inland Northwest region is prone to flooding, so you need to have a plan in place in case one strikes. The steep hills and rainy seasons can propel water downhill quickly, forming the perfect conditions for flash floods and mudslides. Because floods are common in the area, our team at Pure Restore wrote this article detailing the steps you should take if a flood strikes your property. Keep reading to learn more.
Have a plan in advance
If your property is located on or near a floodplain, you need to have a plan. Floods occur with little to no warning, so being prepared in advance is essential. Your flood plan should include:
- Emergency kit
- Communication strategy
- Elevating appliances
- Flood barriers and waterproofing
These are just some of the steps you can take to prepare. Call our flood experts at Pure Restore to learn more steps you can take to prepare.
Avoid swift-moving flood water
Never approach fast-moving flood water. Six inches is enough to sweep you off your feet, and a foot can move an entire car. If the water is threatening you or your family, move to higher ground immediately.
If you have time, secure your home by moving your belongings to the second floor. Only do this if you have time. DO NOT risk your life to save your belongings.
Evacuate the flooded area
If instructed by authorities or if you notice water quickly rising near your property, it’s time to evacuate. If you have time, turn off your utilities, such as the electric and natural gas. But, as we mentioned before, don’t put yourself at risk to do so. If appliances are in standing water, do not touch them. The water could have live electrical current running through it.
If you are driving away from the scene, never cross moving water in your vehicle. It can easily get stuck or even swept away.
Be careful around post-flood debris
The ground after a flood is often covered in dangerous debris, including glass, wires, nails, lumber, dead animals, and much more. Always wear shoes that cover your entire foot. That means no sandals, and never go barefoot. Sturdy boots are the best choice when navigating an area impacted by a flood.
The leftover water and mud often harbor bacteria and fungus. If you touch it, immediately wash your hands.
Enter your flooded property with care
Return to your business or home only when the local authorities say it is safe. Use extreme caution when entering. Walls, floors, and ceilings could have experienced significant damage. Even more, the foundation could have been altered, increasing the risks of collapse. If you are at all in doubt about the condition of your property, do not enter.
Call your insurance company
After the flood clears, you need to contact your insurance company. Take pictures of your damaged property and belongings. The more you document, the better. You will need to present as much information as possible to your insurance adjuster because they often don’t arrive until well after the flood.
Contact Pure Restore
After a flood, you need to start the emergency restoration process as soon as possible. Fortunately, the Pure Restore team is the Inland Northwest’s top emergency restoration company, and we can be at your property the same day.
We specialize in flood damage restoration. When we arrive at your property, we immediately begin to extract the leftover water, mud, and debris. Because floods are stressful for the property owner, our technicians understand how you feel and lead with compassion. We do the dirty work so you can focus on your family and pets and getting your life back in order.
Have you recently experienced flood damage? Don’t wait to contact Pure Restore. Our local technicians serve Spokane, Washington, and the entire Inland Northwest. To prevent mold growth and lasting damage, call our office today. You can also reach out regarding a consultation by using this website.
