An impending flood can send your city into a panic, as everyone rushes to buy essentials and attempts to ride out the storm. Fortunately, there are several proactive tasks you can complete now to prepare for a natural disaster and avoid the hysteria. Here, the drain service specialists from American Rooter in Watertown, CT, share ways to prep your family and property before a flood occurs.

Drain Service Team on What to Do Before a Flood

1. Create an Evacuation Route

Work with your family members to establish a safe route out of the area. Practice taking the route to make sure everyone will know the correct path out when the time comes. You should also establish a location where you can all meet up if anyone gets lost.

2. Use Alternate Communication

If the phone service goes out, you will need another way to communicate with friends and family if you get split up. Purchase battery-operated walkie-talkie radio systems for each member of your household that is old enough to use it.

3. Stockpile Supplies

You should have a first-aid kit and enough batteries, bottled water, and nonperishable food to last at least several days. Any medication and valuables should be stored at a higher elevation to protect them from water damage. Consider purchasing sandbags, plywood, and other building materials that will be needed to protect your home.

4. Protect Your Drainage System

If you have a septic system, it is vulnerable to flooding damage. If you don’t already own one, have a sump pump installed in the basement to remove water from the basement and install backflow valves in your drains, toilets, and sinks to prevent floodwater from backing up into your home. Work with a drain service company to create a plan for your home's wastewater disposal system.

If you know that flooding is going to occur, create a plan of action to get your family safely out of the area ahead of time. After the danger is over, contact the professionals at American Rooter in Litchfield County to perform septic tank cleaning and drain repair to get your plumbing system operational. Their team provides a variety of flood services, so count on them to pump out the water and determine the root of the problem. To speak with a drain service expert, call (888) 863-4638 or visit them online for additional information on how they can help.