Chicago, Illinois – also called the Windy City, aside from the city’s cultural contributions in art, literature, film, novels, film, theater, and music, it is also known for its extreme weather conditions.
Lying in a humid continental zone, Chicago weather is characterized by harsh winters, and thunderstorms are common during spring and summer. This results in precipitation levels that can reach nearly 40 inches annually.
Thus, many homes in Chicago have to deal with flooded basements after a storm or when the winter ice is melting. So, what should you do when your basement gets flooded?
First, make sure you don’t enter the flooded area without turning the electricity off to avoid electrocution. Without light, use a flashlight instead of any flammable materials in case gas is present. The water can be very dirty too, so be sure you have access to tetanus shots, as well.
To clean up after the water recedes, always wear protective clothing. If possible, move items out of the flooded area right away. Any wet items should be air-dried soon, and if your basement has any windows, keep them open. Use fans and dehumidifiers to help the drying process.
If there are chemicals, such as pesticides and the like, be sure to remove them to prevent them from mixing. All concrete and brick walls should be washed with clean water and soapy warm water. Any food stuff that have been contaminated should be thrown away.
Carpets should be cleaned and deodorized as well, and while mattresses can be cleaned (albeit difficult), throw them away if you are in doubt. Drywall panels that have been soaked should be replaced to prevent mold form growing, and be sure to disinfect all surfaces that have been soaked in flood water with a solution of ½ cup of liquid chlorine bleach for every gallon of water.
A flooded basement can be a pain to deal with, so to avoid having to clean up after every flood, be sure to protect your basement to keep from flooding in the first place. Call Perma-Seal today and ask how they can help protect your basement, and home, from future floods.