Keeping Your Home Safe During Heavy Rainfall

For those living in San Diego and surrounding areas, natural disasters like fires and earthquakes are often the first concerns that come to mind. But flooding is an often overlooked threat homeowners should be aware of.

According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, flooding is the most common natural disaster in the US, with 90 percent of incidents involving floodwater. Don’t underestimate the dangers of heavy rainfall. From property damage to potential health risks, the consequences can be severe. Fortunately, certain precautions can keep your home safe from flooding. Here’s what to know.

Protect Your Home with Early Precautions

To defend against the damaging effects of heavy rain, be proactive with these tips:

• Elevate crucial systems like your water heater, furnace, air conditioner, and generator above the expected flood level for your area.
• Store items upstairs or in the attic to protect against rising floodwater.
• Install a sump pump and inspect it regularly to ensure proper functionality.
• Regularly check your roof for signs of damage, such as cracked or drooping chimneys, missing tiles or shingles, and sagging edges.
• Ensure your rain gutters are clear of leaves and debris to promote proper drainage.
• Invest in a backflow valve to deter sewage backups.
• Examine your home’s foundation and seal any cracks you find.
• Make sure all outdoor drains are unblocked to allow water to flow away from your home.

Create a Plan to Protect Your Family

Preparing for heavy rain isn’t just about keeping your home safe—it’s about ensuring your family’s well-being. Follow these steps:

• Create a flood action plan and familiarize every family member with it.
• Map out an evacuation route, establishing a predetermined meeting point in case you get separated.
• Train family members on how to turn off the utilities during emergencies.
• Assemble a survival kit packed with food and water, medications, cash, credit cards, essential documents, and other vital items you might need during an evacuation.
• Stay updated on weather alerts and flood warnings in your area.
• Get your neighbors’ phone numbers to share community-level updates and ask for help when needed.

Know What to Do in the Face of a Flood

If heavy rainfall threatens to flood your neighborhood, act quickly:

• Take valuable items like furniture, rugs, and electronics to the highest floor of your home.
• Turn off electricity at the main breaker and lift major appliances onto blocks if they’re in danger.
• Secure outdoor items or move them inside, if possible.
• Monitor local news or weather apps to stay informed.
• Avoid walking through floodwaters, as they might be electrically charged or contaminated.
• Don’t drive on flooded roads or bridges.

Choose Pacific Flood Restoration

When flood damage occurs, you need a trustworthy partner to help you recover. That’s where Pacific Flood Restoration comes in. We are dedicated to customer care, transparency, and unwavering ethics. Our 24/7 availability means we’re here for you during emergencies. So, if you need flood damage restoration in San Diego or North County San Diego, call us at 760-815-3033 to request an immediate response from our team.