This is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional advice. Standing floodwater can also spread infectious diseases, bring chemical hazards, and cause injuries. Drink clean, safe water. If evacuation appears necessary: turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve. If you're unable to raise an item, anchor it and protect it with a floodwall or shield. Elevate your washer, dryer, water heater, oil tank, furnace and electrical wiring on concrete blocks. Flood Safety Tips. The initial damage caused by a flood is not the only risk. Flood prevention tips. CDC is not responsible for Section 508 compliance (accessibility) on other federal or private website. Home / 9 Simple Flood Prevention Tips To Control Flooding Due to Surface Water. The document at hand concerns the “best practice document”, which is an update of the United Nations and Economic Commission for Europe (UN/ECE) Guidelines on Sustainable flood prevention (2000). Flood Watch. Throw out items that cannot be washed and cleaned with a bleach solution: mattresses, pillows, carpeting, carpet padding, and stuffed toys. Flood Watch vs Flood Warning. Store immunization records in a waterproof container. Flood Resilient Measures. The most common flood deaths occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous floodwater. To help you keep water from seeping into places it’s not wanted, Lawley offers the following precautionary flood prevention measures you can take to protect your home and its belongings from flooding due to surface water. As little as six inches of water can cause you to lose control... Do not drink flood water, or use it to wash dishes, brush teeth, or wash/prepare food. During a water advisory, use only bottled, boiled, or treated water for drinking, cooking, etc. Make sure that the ground area within 10 feet of your home slopes away from your home’s foundation Monitor the weather conditions and know when to take immediate action and relocate furniture. 9 Simple Flood Prevention Tips To Control Flooding Due to Surface Water, Lawley’s Dunkirk Branch Supports United Way in Chautauqua County, Kevin Holler Joins the Arxcel Team to Help Service National Clientele, Junior Achievement of WNY Celebrates its 100th Anniversary, Since leaves are the biggest contributor to clogged gutters, clean the gutters and the drainage downspouts attached to your roof at least twice a year, Make sure that the ground area within 10 feet of your home slopes away from your home’s foundation, Extend downspouts at least 10 feet from your home, Direct water flow from downspouts away from your home, being careful not to discharge the water too close to adjacent property, Have your roof carefully inspected at least once a year by a capable person to check the roof thoroughly for missing shingles, degraded roof components, separation of the roof from chimneys and exhaust pipes, and other roof problems, If your house or commercial lot is at risk of flooding from a higher neighboring property, consider building a solid wall masonry fence on the water-vulnerable boundaries of your property, Preventative landscaping can also help reduce the chance of a mudslide or flooding, Be vigilant for warning signs of an impending water flood problem. See recommendations by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)external icon. When in doubt, throw it out! This includes water stains and mold growth on ceilings and walls, the underside of attic roof sheathing, and mold water pooling, water dripping, water leaks, or mold growth anywhere inside your home or business, Plan ahead. Flood Prevention measures can reduce the frequency and magnitude of flooding significantly. Ontario is set for changing weather conditions and a wet spring, which also means an increased risk of flooding in certain areas, such as the Great Lakes shores. How to Limit Flood Water Damage in Your Home. To help reduce flood damage: Install backflow valves or standpipes to prevent sewer lines from backing up. Listen to your local radio or television station for updates. Drink clean, safe water. Preventing Flood Damage. Listen to water advisory from local authorities to find out if your water is safe for drinking and bathing. Clean walls, hard-surfaced floors, and other household surfaces with soap and water and disinfect with a solution of one cup of bleach to five gallons of water. Know the Flood Zones. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Have immunization records handy (or know the year of your last tetanus shot). The most common flood deaths occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous floodwater. The COVID-19 situation is affecting many of our clients and communities. Leave areas subject to flooding: low spots, canyons, washes, etc. Flood prevention can seem like an arduous task but if you live in a flood plain, it’s necessary. Bring in outdoor possessions (lawn furniture, grills, trash cans) or tie them down securely. If there is a flood watch in your area, turn on the TV to the local news to stay on top of the situation and start preparing your home for flooding just in case the situation escalates. Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than any other hazard related to thunderstorms. here are six approaches you can take to preventing damage in future floods: elevate the building, block the water in the yard, seal the building, use materials that water won't hurt, and elevate appliances and systems. Use generators at least 20 feet from any doors, windows, or vents. Click here to visit our COVID-19 portal with information for businesses, employers & individuals. 4 ways to protect your home from flooding due to spring thaw.