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When your basement floods, it's natural to panic. If you don't know the proper steps to take immediately afterward, it can be incredibly overwhelming to try and figure it out on your own. That's why American Rooter in Watertown, CT, offers professional drain service to anyone who needs it. To simplify the process further, they’ve compiled the following guide.

What to Do When Your Basement Floods

1. Take Safety Precautions

Never walk into a flooded area while the power is still on, because loose wires or circuitry could cause personal injury. If you can safely get to your circuit breaker, turn off your home’s power, including the electricity and gas. Next, put on gloves, boots, and a protective mask—you never know when something sharp or dangerous could be lurking in murky water. You should also be careful when walking around, as your floor may be slippery.

2. Take Action

Now that you can be confident in your safety, determine the source of the flood. If it is from a storm, wait until the weather clears. If, however, it's from a damaged pipe, you need to cut off the water supply to your basement. Once the flow of water has stopped, a drain service professional can remedy the situation.

3. Dry the Area

drain serviceAs soon as the water is removed, you can properly care for your belongings. Move items out of the basement to a dry, preferably sunny location, but don't touch any electronics before calling an electrician. Be sure to give your belongings a solid two days to fully dry. In the meantime, allow your basement walls and floor to dry by opening any doors or small windows for ventilation. At this point, call a professional to help you rip up carpeting, which will prevent the floor from drying and lead to mold or mildew growth. You may also need to hire someone to wash your basement walls and spray mold-resistant chemicals.

If you still need help, have questions, or already see mold and mildew growing, don't hesitate to call American Rooter today. From drain service to septic tank cleanings, these professionals can tackle a variety of plumbing needs. Call them at (888) 863-4638 for more information, or visit them online.

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