After the floodwaters have receded, your priority should be to salvage as many of your belongings as possible. Here’s how to do it:

1. Safety First

• Before entering the basement, ensure it is safe to do so. If there is still flooding or electrical hazards, call emergency services.

2. Remove Standing Water

• Use a wet/dry vacuum or pump to extract as much water as possible.

3. Prioritize Salvageable Items

• Electronics: Remove electronic devices like computers, TVs, and phones. Disconnect them from power sources and place them in a dry spot for later evaluation.
• Furniture: If furniture is wet, move it to a dry area and elevate it off the ground. Use fans or dehumidifiers to accelerate drying.
• Documents: Retrieve important documents like passports, birth certificates, and insurance papers. Spread them out in a dry place to air dry.
• Clothing: Shake off excess water from clothing and hang it to dry. Avoid using heat sources, as they can damage fabrics.
• Appliances: Unplug appliances and remove them from the basement. Do not attempt to operate them until they have been inspected by a qualified technician.

4. Discard Damaged Items

• Discard any items that have been heavily damaged or contaminated with sewage.

5. Prevention

• Once the basement is dry and cleaned, consider installing a sump pump or other flood prevention measures to minimize future damage.