Flooding can cause an immense amount of damage to your home and property. If you experience the effects of a flood, know how to react and have a plan to prevent future destruction.

Dealing with flood damage

The first thing to do if your home and garage floods is to call your insurance agent and file a claim. The National Flood Insurance Program advised that you not to enter any area that may be suffering structural damage as a result of flooding. Also, disengage or refrain from using any electricity in a flooded area. If it is safe to enter the affected building, take photographs to keep on record and create a list comprised of any belongings that were damaged, destroyed or lost due to flood.

Stagnant water resulting from floods may also pose health threats. A number of dangerous bacteria and parasites can be very prosperous in flooded areas, according to Restoration Local. Additionally, there is always a risk of water contamination from septic tank leakage. Do not expose yourself to possible pollution or illness and contact professional help immediately if water has been left standing for a long period of time.

Until a knowledgeable authority informs you that your running water is safe, boil any that you drink or purchase bottled water. 

Clean and disinfect any surface that may have been contaminated. It is important to be safe when dealing with a flood, but water rapidly causes damage. Act fast and get the proper help to deal with the aftermath of rising waters. Schedule mold inspections after a flood as well due to the growth's ability to rapidly develop after this type of disaster. 

Preventing flood damage

Enroll in flood insurance and keep copies of your policy easily accessible for emergency situations. A property inspection might alert you to where drainage might be an issue. 

In addition to flood insurance, safeguard your possessions. Keep your belongings off of the ground if you know that you are at risk for flooding. The further items are from the ground, the less likely they are to be damaged or destroyed by unwanted water. 

Also, keep a detailed inventory of all your valuable goods and property. Consider photographing items to have a record of the condition your belongings were in before a potential flood. This will be especially helpful when filing a claim with an insurance provider.