What to Do After a Flash Flood

6/30/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Douglasville is your local water restoration experts. We have around-the-clock service for emergencies.

July in the greater Atlanta area typically involves over 16 days of expected rain—that’s over half the month. And while the average rainfall amount from those days isn’t anything overwhelming, there’s always a chance that one of those rainy Georgia days could turn into something unexpected.

A flood warning is issued. Suddenly water is crossing roads, creeks are backing up and the weatherperson is warning you about dangerous conditions outside.

Water’s pouring into the basement or garage, and now you’ve got ruined carpet, flooded rooms and other issues. You’ve taken shelter on higher ground if necessary, you’ve stayed off the roads and away from rushing water. Your family is safe, and you’ve got an emergency kit prepared for power loss or perished food.

But when the waters recede and the flooding is over, what are your next steps?

First of all, and most importantly, be safety-conscious. If you have time before water starts coming in, unplug your appliances.

If standing water is in your home near appliances that are still plugged in, leave them be. Attempting to unplug them can result in fatal electric shock, because they may charge the water surrounding you.

If perishable food has been touched by flood water, consider it unsafe and throw it out. Also boil any tap water before drinking until you know it’s safe and uncontaminated with flood water.

Depending on the amount of water present, you may be able to take care of the drainage yourself if your home has a sump pump, or even a wet/dry vac. But if the damage from a flash flood is more than you can manage, or if it has caused other issues that need your attention, don’t wait—call the water damage technicians at SERVPRO of Douglasville.

With a locally owned and operated office nearby and ²⁴⁄₇ emergency services, we can be onsite quickly to mitigate damage, prevent further damage and restore your basement or garage to its original state.

With highly advanced technology, skilled technicians and around-the-clock service for emergencies, we’ve got the tools and the people to get the job done. Get in touch today if you’ve experienced water damage.