Do not walk into a flooded basement if the water could reach outlets, extension cords, the electrical panel, a washer, dryer or water heater, or if it may be sewage. Shut the power to the basement first from a dry place, or have the utility do it. If you are not sure it is safe, stay out and call (413) 603-1274.
The dangers
- Electric shock. Water conducts electricity from submerged outlets, cords and appliances.
- Gas. If you smell gas, leave the house and call the gas company or 911 from outside.
- Sewage. Dark, smelly water carries bacteria. Keep skin away from it.
- Hidden hazards. Floor drains, tools and slippery stairs under the water.
- Hot water. A failed water heater can release scalding water.
When it may be safe
It is usually safe to go in if the power to the basement is off at the panel and the panel itself is dry, the water is clean, such as from a burst supply pipe, it is shallow, there is no gas smell, and you wear rubber boots. Even then, move slowly and stay away from the water heater and boiler.
If the electrical panel is in the basement
In many Chicopee homes the panel is in the basement. If you would have to walk through water to reach it, do not. Call the electric utility or 911 to have the power cut. Chicopee Electric Light has a 24-hour emergency line.
What to do from upstairs
- Shut the main water valve if you can reach it from a dry spot.
- Keep kids and pets upstairs.
- Photograph from the stairs.
- Call us: (413) 603-1274. We pump it out, fix the source and dry it.
See flooded basement cleanup and, if it smells like sewage, sewage backup cleanup.
Hidden hazards in the water
- Electricity: outlets, extension cords, the washer, the dryer, a sump pump and the boiler controls can all energize the water
- Gas: a flooded gas water heater or furnace can have a pilot or burner that went out. If you smell gas, leave the house and call the gas company from outside
- Sewage: water from a floor drain or toilet carries bacteria. Keep children and pets away
- Unseen objects: boxes, tools and floating items you cannot see under murky water
- Slippery stairs: wet basement stairs cause falls
- Heating oil: an oil tank or line damaged by water can leave a sheen and a strong smell. Do not stir it up
What to wear if you must go down
Only once the power is confirmed off: rubber boots, waterproof gloves and a flashlight. Move slowly, test each step, and do not touch any electrical device or switch while standing in water. If anything feels wrong, get out and call for help.
After the water is gone
Even once the floor is dry, have any appliance or outlet that was under water checked before using it. Wet wiring can fail days later. Wash your hands and boots after being in floodwater, and keep children out until the area is cleaned.
Questions
Can I run the boiler after the basement flooded?
Not if water reached its controls or burner. Have it checked first. See can a flooded basement ruin your boiler.
Are rubber boots enough?
Only once the power is off. Boots do not make it safe to walk in water touching live electrical.
Basement flooded? Call now
Call (413) 603-1274 now. Locally owned in Chicopee.