Ask The Experts: What Happens When Water Damage Hits Your Home?

3/31/2021 (Permalink)

Heavy rainstorms in the Chesterton area can mean you need to prepare yourself for flooding. Being prepared means making sure you are informed about the storm and the areas it is affecting, creating an emergency plan of communication, and knowing what to do when the flood is approaching your home.

Flooding and flood damage to your Chesterton home can be massive in a short amount of time. It is essential that as soon as the storms subside, you get in touch with a professional remediation company, such as SERVPRO, right away. We can help you get all the water out of your home and then dry it out so you and your family can return to a safe, dry home again.

You can reduce the risk of damage to your home by elevating utilities that are critical such as switches, electrical panels, wiring, sockets, heating systems, and appliances. If you live in an region with repeated flooding, think about elevating your whole structure. You should also make sure your basement is waterproofed, and your sump pump is working correctly. Install a battery backup as well in case you lose power.

SERVPRO technicians follow all safety procedures during a flooding emergency like this, including keeping you and your family out of the home while we work and wearing protective equipment. Floodwater can be contaminated by sewage and chemicals, or even animals. Our specialists want to ensure that everyone is kept safe.

We extract as much standing water as we can with powerful, truck-mounted pumps to remove the water as quickly as possible. Once this is complete, we can assess the rest of the damage and dry your structure out.

When floods are approaching, make sure to clear debris from downspouts and gutters and fuel tanks should be anchored. Move your valuables, furniture, and documents which are important to a safe place. You should keep copies of valuable documents like passports and birth certificates in a safe place that is dry, like a safe deposit box.

Building an emergency supply kit is also a good idea. Bottled water, food, medicines, first-aid supplies and a radio that is battery operated should be packed and ready to go when you are. Plan an evacuation route as well and practice it with your entire family, so everyone knows what to in the event of an emergency.

SERVPRO of Porter County is ready to help you restore your home in Portage, Kouts, or Valparaiso when floodwaters have invaded. Please give us a call at (219) 476-1883 as soon as the storm has subsided so we can help you avoid additional damage to your home.

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