You’ve probably all heard about the weather warnings for the next few weeks in both the UK and the US, so it should be no surprise that thousands of people are currently searching online to find out about the different ways in which they can keep their property safe from flooding. Due to this, I thought it could be wise for the to write and release a short article highlighting some of the precautions you may wish to take. This advice is coming from someone with experience who really wants to help you out, so don’t worry, I won’t be trying to sell you any gimmicky barrier kits or encouraging you to buy flood defence systems from a company I own. All the information contained in this article is completely impartial and is guaranteed to help you ensure your home is 100% prepared for the worst.
There are many different methods and techniques for preparing your home, and which you choose should depend heavily on the type of flooding you’re most likely to experience. If you live very close to a river that’s widely known for bursting its banks regularly during heavy rain, you really have no time to hesitate. Read through the paragraphs below right now and start making plans, because you really could lose everything if you leave it too late.
Keeping Flood Water Outside Your Property
Regardless of how hard you try, if the waters outside your home reach a certain height, they’re going to make their way into your lower floors. Even so, there’s a lot you can do in advance to delay this from happening. Firstly, make sure you purchase a large supply of sandbags and keep them inside your home. This will allow you to build a barrier around your front door and anywhere else you feel may be vulnerable. It won’t keep the water away forever, but it could buy you some precious time and allow you to save as many of your possessions as possible.
Keeping Groundwater Outside Your Property
If you believe it’s possible for your home to flood through the ground, then it would be sensible to purchase some pumping equipment, as this really is your only hope. You should only really use a pump if flood waters outside your property are lower than those inside, otherwise you might well cause some significant structural damage. Also, you’re going to need a backup generator, as the chances of your electricity supply remaining in working order during a large flood are slim. Make sure you keep this generator upstairs, because it might become a little difficult to located in a flooded garden or garage.
Reducing The Possible Water Damage
If your home is located in a region where flooding is pretty much inevitable at some point, then it might be worth taking certain precautions ahead of time. Although it might sound rather basic, simply fitting shelves and keeping as many of your possessions off the floor as possible can have a big impact on the amount you lose when the water strikes. Also, laying tiles instead of carpet or laminate flooring can help to reduce the amount of financial loss you encounter. Little things like this can make a big difference, so give them some consideration.
Anyway, I’m off to help a friend out with his flooded home now, so I’ll have to leave it there. Just remember to think ahead, and everything should be fine.
Good luck!
