How Should I Protect My House from Flooding?

Floods are undoubtedly a pressing issue in Canada, and preparation is the most efficient way to reduce the likelihood of property damage.

Despite the location or the time of year, floods can occur in any region in Canada and any city. In Mississauga, nearby lakefronts are especially likely to flood the city centre. 

It is imperative that we take measures ahead of time to protect our property from damage caused by flooding. Knowing what to do before, during, and after a flood are the key ways to protect your property.

Preparing Before a Flood

Hopefully, you will never have to deal with the issue of responding to flooding. But just in case, you will want to take precautions to reduce the likelihood of property damage due to excessive rain or other water. To do so, putting weather protection sealant around all windows in your home is critical.

Flood repair experts Ideal Development Concepts recommend installing drainage to ensure water can drain away from your building. Further, do not store any essential information, paperwork, or necessary medications in the basement or any place where there is a high risk of damage from water. 

You also want to be ultra prepared by checking the weather so that you can have forewarning of the chance that heavy rain is in the forecast. 

If a flood is in the forecast, you will want to make sure you have taken all of the precautions you can to safeguard all electrical and gas equipment. For extra guidance and structural preparedness, contact local companies for advice on important home protection matters. 

Knowing What to Do During a Flood

Listen to local radio or check government sites for information about evacuation. You will need to know which areas and roads are safe for you and your family to evacuate if needed. 

If you need to evacuate, you will need to leave your home when advised to do so by local authorities. You will need to follow the specific routes laid out by officials, and if you have an emergency kit, be sure to take it with you.

Make arrangements for your pets, and leave a note informing others of details of your departure (if time permits.) Be sure to evacuate safely — never cross fast waters, do not drive in flooded streets. Remember: you and your passengers are more important than your belongings!

Knowing How to Respond After a Flood

A safe response after a flood is something not to take lightly. It may not immediately be safe to re-enter your home, and you might be out of power or other resources. 

For your safety, it is essential that you exercise caution when re-entering your home after a flood. Often, with natural disasters, local authorities will notify you when it is safe to return to the home. It may be necessary that an electrician or other municipal or other local authorities inspect your home before you re-enter as broken wires, fallen roofing structures, and other hazards can be present.

Ensure the building is safe structurally and free of holes in the flooring, debris, or broken glass. Additionally, it is vital that you document issues that are present. If you or your loved ones are injured, make sure you utilize local healthcare services whenever possible.

Conclusion

Having a plan in place just in case of an emergency is essential and is particularly relevant in the fight to prevent flooding in Canada. 

To ensure you and your loved ones and belongings are safe from potential water damage, devise a plan of action today to ensure that you are all protected from harm.