When faced with a flooded basement, swift and decisive action is crucial to mitigate damage and ensure safety.
### What to Do When Your Basement Floods:
1. **Ensure Safety:**
– Turn off electricity at the main breaker to prevent electrical shock.
– Check for gas leaks and ventilate the area if necessary.
– Wear protective gear, including gloves, boots, and a face mask.
2. **Stop Water Flow:**
– If possible, locate and close the source of the water leak.
– Use sandbags, towels, or blankets to block entry points.
3. **Remove Standing Water:**
– Use a pump or bucket to remove as much water as possible.
– Open windows and doors to ventilate and reduce humidity.
### Additional Safety Measures:
– Do not enter the basement if water depth exceeds 6 inches or if electrical wires are exposed.
– Keep children and pets out of the affected area.
– Document the damage for insurance purposes by taking photos and videos.
– Contact a professional basement flood clean up service promptly to minimize the risk of mold and structural damage.