Precautions of Water in the Basement
Rising basement water and electricity do not mix. When water reached the height of electrical outlets, electrical shortages and fires can occur. More importantly, people can be electrocuted by stepping on a wet surface and touching an electrical source.
Water and gas do not mix, either. If basement water causes the pilot light to go out on a hot water heater or furnace, especially on older units, gas will continue to flow and begin to accumulate to dangerous levels. Because water suppresses gas from rising, the gas goes unnoticed until it reaches a source of ignition and explodes. Newer hot water heaters have a safe position that automatically shuts off when the pilot light goes out.
The standard recommendation for surfaces that become wet due to flooding is to discard anything that cannot be cleaned and sanitized. Usually carpeting and drywall and paneling hold a lot of moisture and are hard to clean properly. However, each case can be property-specific. Please call (860) 561-7900 to provide details about what happened to your property so that they can guide you in the right direction.
A sewage contaminated basement is a breeding ground for bacteria and disease. The town's Environmental Health Services Division offers homeowners a step-by-step approach to disinfecting a contaminated basement. They can be reached by calling (860) 561-7900.
SOLUTIONS
The best protection against future flooding and sewage contamination is prevention. The following corrective measures are suggested:
1. Install a back water valve. A back water valve is a valve that rests inside a main plumbing line and lifts open when water exits the house and closes when water enters the house from outside (price: $500 - $750).
2. Maintain an
existing back water valve. Back water valves should be serviced, lubricated,
cleaned and seated properly every three to five years. Local plumbers
service these valves for about $150 to $200.
