Floods in Winneshiek County

4/5/2021 (Permalink)

Do you have flood insurance for your home or business?

In August 2016, the Upper Iowa River overflowed after heavy rains and caused flash flooding to many communities in Winneshiek county. At that time, a SERVPRO franchise was not located locally. Fortunately, SERVPRO of Black Hawk County traveled north to help cleanup after this storm disaster. The crew called area hotels, home, for several weeks. They worked around the clock extracting water and drying out homes and businesses. According to FEMA, 1 inch of water can cause $25, 000 of damage to your home!

As we head into Spring and Summer, SERVPRO of Decorah, wants to be a resource and provide some helpful tips to prepare for a storm, and avoid extreme water damage within your control.

5 Tips Before a Flood

1. Prepare a storm emergency kit.
2. Get a battery backup for your sump pump.
3. Find out about your home insurance and what it covers. Get Flood insurance.
4. Elevate items stored in your basement.
5. Waterproof important documents.

DURING A FLOOD, GET TO HIGHER GROUND AND DO NOT WALK-THROUGH FLOWING WATER.

5 Tips after a Flood

1. If there is sewer or black water in your home, do not make contact with it.
2. Avoid electrical devices and sockets if the items or room is wet.
3. If there is water damage inside your home, call your insurance agent right away.
4. Take photos or videos to document your damage.
5. Call a restoration company to help clean and restore your home!

If you decide to clean up on your own, please be careful. Do not use a household vacuum to remove water.

For more tips on what to do until restoration help arrives CLICK HERE.