What is the first thing to do when basement floods?

Basement flooding is a major inconvenience that can cause significant damage to your home. If your basement has flooded, it is important to take action immediately to minimize the damage. Here are the initial steps and safety measures you should take:

**1. Ensure Safety First:**

• Turn off the electricity to the basement at the main breaker panel. This will prevent electrical shock and further damage to appliances.
• Do not enter the basement if there is standing water. Wait until the water has receded or call a professional for assistance.

**2. Call Your Insurance Company:**

• Report the flood to your insurance company as soon as possible. They will be able to guide you through the claims process and help you cover the costs of repairs.

**3. Remove Water from the Basement:**

• If it is safe to enter the basement, use a pump or wet/dry vacuum to remove as much water as possible.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate the basement and help dry it out.

**4. Clean and Disinfect the Basement:**

• Once the water has been removed, clean and disinfect the basement to prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Use a bleach solution or commercial disinfectant to kill bacteria and viruses.

**5. Dry Out the Basement:**

• Use fans, dehumidifiers, or air conditioners to dry out the basement as quickly as possible.
• Keep windows and doors open for ventilation.

**6. Inspect for Damage:**

• Once the basement is dry, inspect it for damage to walls, floors, and belongings.
• Take photographs of the damage for insurance purposes.

**7. Contact a Professional:**

• If the flooding is severe or you are not comfortable cleaning up the basement yourself, contact a professional basement flood clean up service.
• They have the equipment and expertise to safely and effectively clean up the flood damage.

By following these initial steps and safety measures, you can minimize the damage caused by a basement flood and protect your home.