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Water
is the world’s most precious natural resource but it can also be it’s worst
enemy. Water can cause extensive damage to homes and businesses in just a short period of
time. The following guidelines have been developed to help protect your home and/or
business from water damage:
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Elevate heating and hot water systems by using a masonry base
at least 12 inches above  flood level. Electrical panels and utilities also should be
relocated to an area above the flood panel.
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If space is not high enough to allow elevation of the utility,
try to move it to an upper floor or attic space.
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Build a floodwall around basement windows to protect the
basement from low-level flooding and anchor fuel tanks to prevent them from floating or
overturning.
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If there is a storm drain in front of your home, try to keep
leaves and debris off
of the top of it to help prevent street and overland flooding during
heavy rainstorms.
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Install backflow preventers on all plumbing fixtures located
below street grade. The Backwater Valve page
explains why these are needed and
how to have them installed.
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Installing a floating floor-drain plug at
the lowest part of
the basement or the lowest finished floor will reduce backups. When the floor drainpipe
backs up, the float rises and plugs the drain.
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If your basement or home is flooded, remember that electricity
will go to ground through any good conductor: metal, liquid or you. Stay out of its path.
NEVER touch appliances or wires when hands or feet are wet.
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