17 Mar 7 ways to prevent spring flood damage

Spring is around the corner! But with the arrival of blue skies and butterflies also comes the threat of flooding. Rapidly melting snow and frequent rain, especially on still-frozen ground, can mean more water than your home can handle. Even if you live in an area with a low flood risk.

7 ways to prevent spring flood damage

Here’s the good news: some simple preparation can significantly lower your chance of property damage. If you are able and it’s safe to do so, take these seven steps:

• Move snow away from your foundation and window wells.
• Remove debris from eaves, gutters and storm drains.
• Direct downspouts and/or downspout extensions away from your home.
• Re-open outside water valves only when overnight temperatures are consistently above freezing.
• Store valuables in waterproof containers and above basement level.
• Clear obstructions away from basement floor drains.
• Ensure that your sump pump, backup sump pump and/or backflow valves are working (if you have them).

Boost your year-round flood resiliency
Here are a few extra steps that can improve a home’s wet-weather defense for the long term. If you’ve already made these upgrades, consider sharing this list with friends or family.

• Re-grade (away from the building) paved or landscaped areas that currently slope toward your home.
• Install a sump pump that has an automatic secondary backup.
• Install window wells around basement windows.
• Seal any cracks in your foundation walls and basement floors.
• Schedule an inspection by a licensed plumber to determine if you have sewer backflow prevention (if not, have it installed).

Purchase a water damage alarm to serve as an early warning.

Source: The Co‑operators^®