When rising water becomes a flood, you need to be prepared

The summer of 2005 may be remembered as the season of contrasts. While Ontarians suffered through a marathon of heat, smog and relentless drought, homeowners in the West scrambled to protect their homes and belongings as swollen rivers created historic flooding – washing through farms and residential neighbourhoods alike.

Few Canadian homeowners are properly prepared for floods – whether it’s weather-induced, or a break in the home’s own water or drainage systems. There’s never been a better time to think about flood-preparedness… before water starts to rise in your house.

1. Safety first!

When you have water inside a home, you have a high risk of electrical shock. Where rubber boots and keep children and pets away. Equip yourself with rubber gloves, masks (N95 respirators are recommended) and whatever protective gear you have to work in what will be a contaminated environment.

2. No time to lose.

If the water does come, you’ll need to work fast to clean up. Mould sets in quickly, but if you get carpets and furnishings dried within 48 hours, you greatly reduce the risk of serious mould damage.

3. Contact your insurance agent immediately.

Then get out the camera or video recorder and get a photographic record of the damage. Try to get enough detail to demonstrate the extent of the damage. In the case of widespread flooding (usually weather-related), be sure to register your flood-damaged home with your municipality, who may have a plan in place for resources or financial assistance.

4. Start to bail.

You’ll need to remove all standing water, as well as any accumulated mud and other debris. If you have a pump, pails, squeegees, and a wet-vac, you’ll want them all for this job. Large and small snow shovels can also be helpful for clearing debris.

5. Dispose of any contaminated goods.

Anything that has been touched by sewage, or that has been wet for more than a few days. You can’t just throw these at the curb, by the way. Contact your municipality to ask how contaminated items should be discarded. You’ll want more plastic bags than you can imagine. Be prepared to rip out wet insulation and drywall, if necessary. In some cases, partial panels can be saved. Don’t try to save upholstered furniture, mattresses or bedding that has been touched by sewage.

6. Collect and dry wet belongings.

If items are wet but not contaminated, start gathering them into jumbo plastic totes, and get them outside to air-dry. You can wash them later; the important thing is to get them dry… fast. If you have any valuable papers that have been damaged, toss them into a (working) freezer until you have time to deal with them.

7. Rinse away contamination from the inside of the house.

Start at the top, and work down, removing any dirt or debris clinging to walls or furnishings. Bail the water, then rinse again, repeating the process at least a few times. A wet-vac is worth its weight in gold at this stage.

8. Wash walls, ceilings and floors with a mild detergent.

Preferably unscented, as you’re dealing with a very large area. For the same reason, bleach is not recommended: fumes are harmful and chemical reactions with organic materials are unpredictable.
9. Get drying! A dehumidifier is good. Also open doors and windows, and set up fans to circulate the air. You may need professional help to dry carpets quickly.

10. Don’t move back into your home until it’s safe.

The house should be dry, appliances checked and furnace or AC inspected by a professional. If in doubt, get advice.

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