Keep a flood kit on hand
What is the best way to clean up a flooded basement?
Having a flood kit on hand is recommended by experts as a precautionary measure for water damage. This kit should contain essential items for safety and comfort during a flooding event.
Essential Items for a Flood Kit
- Water: Store a gallon of water per person for each day anticipated to be without access to clean water.
- Non-Perishable Food: Include items that are easy to eat without cooking, such as canned goods, granola bars, and crackers.
- First Aid Kit: Contains bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers, and other essential medical supplies.
- Flashlight: Provides illumination during power outages.
- Battery-Powered Radio: Provides access to important information and updates.
- Whistle: Used to signal for help or alert others.
- Wrench or Pliers: Assists in turning off utilities like gas or water.
- Medications: Pack essential prescription medications and over-the-counter pain relievers.
- Dust Mask: Protects against dust and contaminants during clean-up.
- Gloves: Protects hands during clean-up and debris removal.
- Towels and Blankets: Provides warmth and comfort during evacuation.
- Important Documents: Copies of insurance policies, ID cards, and other essential documents in a waterproof case.
- Water Purification Tablets: Treats water from questionable sources for drinking.
Additional Tips
- Keep the flood kit in an easily accessible location.
- Review and update the kit contents regularly.
- Familiarise family members with the location and contents of the kit.
- Consider adding a battery-powered sump pump to the kit for water removal.
- In the event of a flood, evacuate immediately and avoid contact with contaminated water.