Homeowners prepare homes, streets for rainfall, melting snow
The city is bracing for flooding with rain looming in the forecasts, and so are homeowners.
One local, Jennifer Anderson, has even stayed up late the past few nights to get her home ready before the rain falls.
“I was so concerned I knew I wasn’t going to be able to sleep,” Anderson said.
She lives near 38th and St. Paul Avenue, an area that’s experienced heavy flooding in the past.
“I cleared the snow all the way away from that gutter, if it was blocked it would just pool under the stairs and along my house and it would get into my crawl space.”
She also cleared out snow packed storm drains.
Steve Busboom, with All Care Restoration said she’s done all the right things.
“We’re really concerned about is with expected is the rain and seepage into the basement or lower levels,” Busboom said.
He suggests home owners scoop the snow away from their foundations and make sure gutters are clear.
“Creating a good path for moisture to escape is key,” Busboom said.
Then check your sump pump. To make sure it’s working pour five gallons of water into the pump well and make sure it turns on.
Also ensure the pipe the water drains out of isn’t frozen shut or buried under snow.
Busboom said these are easy precautions you can take to avoid thousands of dollars in damage.
Even just keeping an eye on your basement will help.
“Walk around the edges barefoot or in socks and if you detect wetness call a restoration company right away,” Busboom said.
Anderson, who’s dealt with severe water damage before, said its well worth it to take these precautions.
“I’d suggest citizens get out and clean out their own or they’re gonna have water in their yard and around your home, it’s a concern,” she said.
