With today’s inclement weather, it’s become a necessity to protect the home from the spoils of rainy weather and flooding. While taking precautions even as far back as the summer time is the best way to be prepared once the storms hit, action points can be undertaken once the rains start pouring in to ensure that your situation at home stays safe and that everyone stays dry by the time the floods hit. Prep your emergency bag. Evacuation is a big reality that people living in flood prone areas have to face. When all else fails, despite the measures you’ve taken to keep your house safe, it helps to have a bag ready for the family with all the necessities you’ll need in case you’ll have to jump ship. Have a change of clothes, snacks that won’t spoil, bottles filled with water, as well as cash. Spot leaks and cracks, and fix them. Even slight showers can help show you which parts of your roof will need repairing. Cracks in the wall and ceilings are also telltale signs that there are areas that require maintenance. Filling them in with mortar or cement can prevent water from seeping through these delicate openings. Even spots in the ceiling that show blots or wetness are red flags that tell you it’s time to call your building contractor or a repairmen ASAP. Waterproofing is an essential part of getting any leaks out, especially when you live in a home with just a slight slope on your roofing. Concentrate on gutters and drains. Any part of the house that allows water to flow through need to be cleared out. When these parts of the roof and sewage are clogged, water collects and when the amount of debris and liquid can no longer be contained, more damage can occur in the home. Consistently make sure that no leaves or trash collect in your gutters—whether you’re talking of your own private roof, or the drains on your street. As soon as you find any areas that can cause potential blockages, call your barangay officials or subdivision representatives so they can call for appropriate help. Clear your basements. Always the first spot to get hit in a flood prone area, basements can act as a buffer--once water seeps into this space, it’s a sign that you need to get the rest of your home protected.Once the rains begin, move up any important items located in your lowest floor upstairs. As a preventative measure, never store anything of too much importance in your basement to keep your valuables safe. Check your flashing. All the openings in any home is sealed in by “flashing.” Making sure that this edging lies flush around your windows and roofing means that water cannot crawl into small surfaces. Even tiny drips of water can gently stream into a narrow opening if your flushing isn’t set particularly well—make note of any gaps and have someone check in with your roofing regularly to ensure that all is watertight. By: she.yahoo.com ![]() |
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