Minimize Flood Threat Through Preparation

Intense rains cause major troubles throughout the world year after year. Even those who believe they live far from flood zones can find themselves in danger when rivers and streams outgrow their banks or rain comes too fast for drainage systems to control. Are you confident with what you would do if your home faced damaging floodwaters?

Even in areas away from flood zones, basements are prone to water leakage when the winter snow melts or when the soil is thoroughly soaked with water. One of the most significant things a homeowner with a basement can do is to make sure his or her furnace is placed on on concrete blocks at least a foot off the ground. In many homes, furnace systems are installed directly on the floor. If your basement floods, your furnace is one of the most pricey systems to replace. The elevated water will put out your pilot light causing a grave, if not dangerous, state with any gas-fired appliance. Electric furnaces and oil fueled furnace systems are potentially hazardous as well. It's also significant to keep water heaters, washer, dryers and other appliances beyond reach of floodwaters.

If your home in not equipped a basement, floodwater can still come into your home. During times of extremely heavy rain, water can accumulate and turn streets and roads into rivers where water pours into a home through doorsills. You should make certain that electrical plugs and light switches are at least a foot greater than ground level in your home. Consider adding ground fault interrupter switches to your outlets as a defensive measure if you live in areas where flooding is a common concern.

In certain instances, people do not even recognize that they live near or in a flood zone. As rivers transform their size and shape from erosion, flood maps also change. While living in a flood zone is required to be revealed during a home sale, some sellers are unconscious to the fact that they are in a flood zone and do not know to disclose it. Check local maps and verify this information to be safe.

If the home is located in a flood zone, you will have to acquire flood insurance. Flood insurance is costly, but if your home floods, it can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.

There are things you can do to help reroute any floodwaters that might come your way. Brick or stonewalls can be installed. They do involve a little time, but they improve your home's value, are aesthetically appealing and can keep water from rushing towards your property.

If you live close to a road that floods or where water runs off into your yard during heavy rain or snow melt, consider digging out a drainage ditch. The water will flow away from your home to the nearest stream or river and avoid flooding. Most towns and cities establish the drainage systems, so if you believe your property is in danger, talk to the road commissioner about your concerns.