Heavy Rainfall Alert: Flood Prevention & Safety Tips

Heavy rain and torrential downpour is on the way for Chicagoland and the surrounding suburbs! There are preventative measures you can take to minimize the risk of flooding in your home. Please review the Flood Prevention and Safety Tips below. 

Flood Prevention Tips:

Test Sump Pump and Battery Backup: Using a five gallon jug of water, fill the sump pump until it triggers the device. Once the water drains, your pump is operating appropriately.

Clear Drains of Any Debris: Blocked drains will cause a backup and flooding in the home.

Check Downspouts: Make sure there is a clear area for the downspout to drain  blockages.

Flood Safety Tips:

Electrocution: Standing water should not be walked in if there is still power in the home. Water is a conductor of electricity and could cause serious injury.

Gas Leaks: If your furnace or hot water tank have taken on water in a flood, they should not be used until they have been properly inspected by a certified professional. Any standing water can quickly erode components within the appliances and cause a gas leak within the home.

Bacteria: Flood water often contains harmful bacteria. If the flood water must be traversed (after the power is deactivated) be sure to wear high rubber-soled boots to minimize contact with the water itself. Afterwards, be sure to wash any skin that may have come into contact.

Mold Growth: After the flood water is removed from your home, the damp areas left behind create the perfect environment for mold growth.

Black vs. Clear Water Backup

When your sewer drain backs up, the appropriate response varies depending on the color of the water seeping through.

Black: This is sewage and results from a clog in the sewer line. A Four Seasons plumber will be able to rod this line to keep the sludge moving.

Clear: Oftentimes, clear-water backup is the result of an overflow in the city's main line. With such a large influx of water all at once and numerous sewer drains clogged with debris, the city may not be able to manage the water immediately. Allow the city a chance to catch up; if the backup persists overnight, it is likely a clog in the line.