Basement Flood Clean Up Initial Steps and Safety Measures

What is the first thing to do when basement floods?

Basement flood clean up can be a daunting task, but it is important to take action quickly to prevent further damage. The first thing to do is to ensure your safety and the safety of others by following these initial steps:

Ensure safety

• Turn off the electricity to the basement at the main breaker or fuse box.
• Do not enter the basement if the water level is above your ankles or if there are electrical wires submerged in water.
• If the water is deep or if you are not comfortable entering the basement, call emergency services or a professional basement flood clean up company.

Protect your belongings

• Move valuable items and furniture to higher floors.
• If possible, raise appliances and electronics off the floor.
• Cover furniture and other items with plastic sheeting or tarps.

Pump out the water

• If the water level is low enough, use a submersible pump to pump the water out of the basement.
• Do not use a regular vacuum cleaner to remove water, as this could damage the motor.
• If you do not have a submersible pump, you can rent one from a hardware store.

Dry the basement

• Once the water has been pumped out, it is important to dry the basement thoroughly to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate the basement.
• Use fans to circulate the air and speed up the drying process.
• If the basement is very wet, you may need to use a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air.

Clean up the basement

• Once the basement is dry, you can start to clean up the damage.
• Remove all damaged items from the basement.
• Wash and disinfect all surfaces that have been exposed to water.
• Repair any damaged walls, floors, or ceilings.

Prevent future flooding

• Once the basement has been cleaned up, you can take steps to prevent future flooding.
• Check your gutters and downspouts regularly and make sure they are clean and free of debris.
• Install a sump pump or French drain to help remove water from the basement.
• Seal any cracks or gaps around windows and doors.