Basement levels are easy targets for flooding, but coming down to see your basement full of water can be devastating, and certainly very stressful. If your basement does flood, it is important that you know what to do immediately. If you are ever unsure, do not enter a flooded basement until a professional has checked and cleared that it is okay to do so.

What to Do Immediately After a Basement Flood

Entering a wet basement could be hazardous; therefore, before you enter, you must:

• Turn off your home’s power supply. Entering a water-filled room dramatically increases the likelihood of electrical shock.
• Protect yourself and your loved ones from a gas leak. If you smell gas, leave your home right away and call the utility company to report the leak.
• If flooding is not from the weather, but instead a sewage backup, be aware that the water you are seeing can contain bacteria that will transmit diseases. Also, floodwater that originated from sewers and streets could be contaminated; therefore, you must wear protective gear before entering and wash your hands thoroughly when you exit.
• If the flooding is happening because of a broken pipe in or outside your home, contact a plumber immediately to have the water shut off and the leak assessed.

How to Clean a Flooded Basement

Cleaning a flooded basement is not easy and it will take some time; most likely, you will need to contact a professional experienced in flood restoration for assistance. First, salvage any belongings that have not been harmed from the flood. The faster they are removed, the less likely they will rot. Keep a list of the damaged items you are pulling out from the basement to make it easier for your insurance claim later.

Most importantly, you need to have the water extracted from your flooded basement. Removing moisture from the affected areas and using a controlled drying technique can reduce the amount of damage to your furniture, carpeting, and walls. If your home is not properly cleaned after a flood, you could experience water discolouration, stains and even mold growth.

Babayan’s offers professional water extraction and flood restoration in Toronto. Our team can respond to your water damage emergency and help you avoid further damage to your carpeting or flooring with our effective water extraction techniques. We also offer post-flood carpet cleaning to help remove any contaminants and impurities left behind from the floodwaters.