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Snow management can protect homes from spring flooding: SGI

Mar 14, 2018 | 12:00 PM

Properly managing the snow around your home could keep water out of your basement this spring, according to SGI.

“There’s a lot you can do to make sure that when the snow melts, that water makes its way to the drain and not into your home,” SGI Canada Chief Operating Officer Don Thompson said in a release. “A little time spent now could save you a big headache as the weather warms up.”

Snow management is particularly important this year, Thompson noted, due to the recent heavy snowfalls and rapidly-warming weather.

“This much snow so late in the season could result in a very fast melt,” Thompson said.

To keep the melting snow out of basements, SGI recommended clearing remaining snow from roofs and clearing eaves and gutters of any debris or ice. Snow should be shoveled away from the home’s foundation, and downspouts should be extended away from the home at least two metres.

Sump pumps and backwater prevention valves should be checked before the snow melts, SGI said, and basements should be monitored for signs of water.

If water does make its way into your basement, SGI recommended seeking professional advice and cleaning up as soon as possible. Don’t throw out any damaged items, as insurance adjusters may want to inspect them, and be wary of damage to electrical appliances and other systems. Do not touch any electrical panels or systems until you know it is safe to do so, SGI said, and have any appliances that have come into contact with water checked by a qualified electrician.

 

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