Preparation the best defense against flooding

Melting ice can not only be a personal risk but flooding can do significant damage to property.

After a dramatic ice rescue in Georgian Bay, it should be clear to anyone how dangerous it can be around lakes and rivers during the spring thaw. But it’s not just a personal risk. Flooding can do a lot of damage to property as well.

Water pooling on roads, sidewalks, and yards may look harmless, but it can be a big problem if it gets into your home. As the ice melts and heavy rain falls on frozen ground, flooding becomes more of a risk.

Barrie PuroClean fixes just that kind of damage. They see a 40 per cent jump in calls this time of year. One of the most common issues, a sump pump failure that leads to a flooded basement.

It’s not always clear how deep the water damage goes. You might not even see it but, if left untreated, it can lead to mold.

Several roads in Innisfil were shut down Tuesday due to flooding, including Abelle Aire Beach Road.

Town crews are on site pumping the water away. They’re also keeping an eye on close by low-lying and flood prone areas.

Flood conditions are expected to worsen as the region looks to get serious rainfall Tuesday night into Wednesday.

PuroClean owner Jeff Disher said prevention is key. Check your drains, sump pump and move snow to give water somewhere to go that isn’t into your home.

He said he’s seen damage with a cost from a $1,000 up to $100,000, so if you don’t prepare, it can cost you.