Tips & Tricks for Keeping Your Family Safe During and After a Flood

Every year, there are countless deaths caused by flooding. The most common cause of death or injury during a flood is when a vehicle drives through floodwaters. You never know how deep the water is or how strong the undercurrent is on such a roadway. It’s best not to take the risk.

During and after a flood, keeping yourself and your family safe should be priority number one. Unfortunately, most are clueless as to what to do. It’s a flood, after all. It’s the type of scenario you see in the movies and never think it could happen to you. When it does, knowing how to act can save lives.

After the flood conditions have passed and the area is safe, then focus on your home. You can schedule flood damage recoveryservices to help ease the burden and put your life back on track.

During a Flood – What to Do

During a flood, time is of the essence. The conditions can easily worsen, as the storm may continue to rage on over the neighborhood. In that case, your one and only focus should be on safety — that of your family, pets, and, of course, yourself.

• Gather emergency supplies, including enough food and water for at least three days, batteries, flashlights, and clean clothes.
• Follow your local radio or television station for storm updates and safety purposes.
• Ensure your immunizations are up to date and keep records in a waterproof container.
• Bring your outdoor possessions, including lawn furniture and trash cans, inside or tie them down.
• If evacuation is a must, shut off all utilities to your home.
• Avoid areas subject to flooding, including low roadways and washes, and do not drive over bridges or flooded roads.

Staying Safe After a Flood

Even once the storm passes, the danger has not yet ceased. In the aftermath of a flood, safety should, once again, be your top priority.

• Do not drive through a flooded area with standing water. Even just six inches of water can damage your vehicle or cause you to lose control while driving.
• Do not ever drink flood water or use it to wash, clean, or prepare food.
• If you were evacuated, wait for approval to return home.
• Adhere to all water advisories from local authorities before drinking or bathing.
• If you’re unsure of food left in your home, throw it out. Do not take the risk.
• If you are without power and need to use a generator, keep it at least 20 feet from an open door, window, or air vent to your home to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.

After you’ve received the all-clear to return home, call Restoration 1 of Horry County. We offer 24-hour flood recovery services to help you get back on your feet. Our certified restoration technicians will reverse the water damageand salvage your possessions.

Call us anytime, 24/7, at 843-279-2662.

About The Author

Jake Gervin is the president of Restoration 1 of Horry County. Jake and his team of professionals are all certified by the IICRC and have years of experience in home and commercial restoration.