First: safety
- Stay out of a flooded basement if water may reach outlets, appliances or the panel.
- Turn off power only if you can reach the panel safely without standing in water; otherwise call the utility or an electrician.
- Avoid contact with floodwater; it may contain sewage.
- Keep children and pets away.
Second: stop what you can
If a pipe or appliance is the source, close the stop valve or the main. If the water is coming from a storm sewer backup, there may be little to stop; focus on safety and documentation.
Third: document
Take photos and video of the water level, damaged items and the source. Note the time. Do not discard damaged items until your insurer says you may. See insurance claim support.
Fourth: call
- Your insurance agent or company.
- A plumber if the source is plumbing or a sewer line.
- Village Public Works at 708.358.5700 for public sewer or water main concerns.
- A restoration or drying professional for water removal.
Fifth: dry quickly
The EPA advises drying wet materials within 24 to 48 hours to limit mold growth. Contaminated water from sewage or floods generally requires removal of porous materials such as carpet and drywall. A moisture assessment can show what can be dried and what cannot. See water damage assessment and moisture detection and mapping.
Prevent the next one
The Village recommends disconnecting downspouts, installing drain tile with a sump pump, and considering an overhead sewer or backflow prevention. See preparing your home for heavy rains in Oak Park and flood detection and prevention.
