What to Do When Your Basement Floods

Heavy rains are a common feature of the Pacific Northwest. However, these downpours can lead to significant damage to your home, especially in vulnerable areas like your basement. If you notice flooding in your basement, follow these tips to stay safe and remedy the damage as soon as possible.

#1: Do Not Enter a Flooded Basement

If you encounter a flooded basement in your Everett home, never enter the room right away. If your circuit breaker is in your basement, do not enter the basement and call a plumber immediately. If the breaker is not in your basement, shut off the power to your home.

#2: Remove Standing Water

Once the area is free of electrical hazard, you can begin removing standing water. However, you should not attempt to remove the water by yourself if the water is more than two feet deep. If the water is less than two feet deep, use a bucket to drain the water. You can also use a mop and towels to remove more standing water as quickly as possible – you don't want to develop mold damage.

#3: Remove Damp Objects

If you have damp items in your basement, remove them from your basement to a place where they can dry. Remove couches, bookshelves, carpets, and other non-electronic devices. Lay them out in the backyard or in your garage and allow them to dry naturally. If you notice any mold development, get rid of the item as soon as possible.

#4: Begin the Drying Process

You will need to begin drying your basement from excess moisture as soon as you remove damp objects. The room will not dry without some outside help. Invest in fans, industrial blowers, dehumidifiers, and other devices to help remove excess moisture from the basement. This will help reduce your chance of developing mold.

If you have a flooded basement, do not attempt to fix it on your own. You may encounter certain risks, such as a weak foundation or electrocution. Contact the professionals at Mr. Rooter Plumbing today to safely fix your flooded basement in your Everett, Washington home.