Being Prepared for a Flood

The pitter-patter of rain trickles down the glass as we sit in the dry warmth of cozy homes. The rain is a soothing sound welcomed by the grass and homeowners, especially in Oklahoma. Recently however, the pitter-patter has become a constant. Which has been wonderful but hard on homes around Oklahoma lately. Flooding has been a big problem recently and we have decided to share a few tips. According to National Geographic here are a few things to do before, during, and after a flood

Before a Flood

• Avoid building in a floodplain.
• Construct barriers (levees, beams, floodwalls) to stop floodwater from entering your home.
• Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.
• If a flood is likely in your area, listen to the radio or television for information.
• Know the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning. A watch means flooding is possible. A warning means flooding is occurring or will occur soon.

When a Flood is Imminent

• Be prepared! Pack a bag with important items in case you need to evacuate. Don’t forget to include needed medications.
• If advised to evacuate your home, do so immediately.
• If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground.
• If possible, bring in outdoor furniture and move essential items to an upper floor.
• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances.

During a Flood

• Do not walk through moving water. As little as 6 inches (15 centimeters) of moving water can make you fall.
• If you have to walk in water, wherever possible, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
• Do not drive into flooded areas. If flood waters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
• Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

After a Flood

• Listen for news reports to learn whether the community’s water supply is safe to drink.
• Avoid flood waters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
• Avoid moving water.
• Be aware of areas where flood waters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
• Stay away from downed power lines, and report them to the power company.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
• Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by flood waters.
• Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards.
• Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.

We hope you don’t have to use these tips any time soon but with the recent amounts of rain we think it would be best for you to know them. If you’re looking for a home that is suitable for your family and would like to ensure better protection from floods, give us a call! The Red Team would be more than happy to help! If you have any extra suggestions or tips please feel free to comment!