Preparing for a Flood

Rain clouds have been obscuring our sunshine in Lexington and West Columbia for awhile now, but in Florida they have been dealing with a few more problems than a missed chance at a tan.

Floods have been upending the lives of many Floridians.



Though damage is unavoidable in flood situations there are some steps you can take to help avoid as much damage as possible to your home or business.

Before the Flood:

- Have a qualified professional elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel if susceptible to flooding.
-Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home or business.
-Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to help avoid seepage.

During the Flood:

-Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so.
-Disconnect electrical appliances.
-Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or are standing in water.
-Do not walk through moving water. Even six inches of moving water can make you fall.

After the Flood:

-Listen for news reports to learn if the community's water supply is safe to drink.
-Avoid floodwaters. Water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged.
-Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters.
-Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

Having flood damage in your home or business can be a difficult situation to deal with, but remember, your Servpro of Cayce/West Columbia/Lexington is here to help you 24/7. Call (803) 755-9774. We make it 'Like it never even happened.'

- Heather Hinson

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