Flood Water Hazards Contained

                                                                                         

Heavy rains are the source of major problems throughout the world year after year. Even homeowners that believe they live far from flood zones can find themselves in trouble when rivers outgrow their banks or rain comes too rapidly for drainage canals to control. Are you confident with what you would do if your home was assaulted by damaging floodwaters?

Even in areas distanced from flood zones, basements are prone to water seepage when the winter snow melts or when the ground is thoroughly soaked with water. One of the most important things a homeowner with a basement can execute is to make certain his or her furnace is installed on concrete blocks at least a foot off the ground. In many residences, furnace systems are installed right 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 hazardous, situation with any gas-fired appliance. Electric furnaces and oil fueled furnace systems are potentially dangerous as well. It's also important to keep water heaters, washer, dryers and other appliances beyond reach of floodwaters.

If your home in not equipped with a basement, floodwater can still come into your home. In periods of extremely heavy rain, water can accumulate and turn streets and roads into waterways where water pours into a home through thresholds. You should make certain that electrical plugs and light switches are at least a foot greater than ground level in your home. Think about adding ground fault interrupter switches to your outlets as a preventative measure if you live in areas where flooding is a general concern.

Many times, people do not even realize that they live near or in a flood zone. As rivers change their size and shape from erosion, flood maps also change. While living in a flood zone is supposed to be accounted for during a home sale, some sellers are ignorant of the fact that they are in a flood zone and do not know to reveal 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 expensive, but if your home floods, it can save you thousands of dollars in the long run.

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

If you live near a street 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 avert flooding. Most towns and cities establish the drainage systems, so if you feel your home is in danger, speak to the road commissioner about your concerns.

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