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After The Storm Blog Header

 

Some are calling it the worst snowstorm in 36 years to hit Ireland.

 

Some doubted it would reach the level of hype that the weather forecasts were predicting.

 

Regardless, the beast from the East showed up as predicted and really made its presence felt.

 

  Crisp white snow fell across the nation.

 

For some it was a refreshing surprise; snowmen were built, igloos formed and time off work enjoyed.

 

For others the restrictions the snow caused was really felt; flights and public transport were cancelled, businesses were forced to remain closed and people were isolated.

 

Now the snow has stopped falling, is time for the big melt.

 

This is a tense time for a lot of people.

 

Water damage is a serious issue for any home.

 

What to watch out for

 

Frozen & Burst Pipes -

 

In the cold weather, like the sub zero temperatures we have been experiencing, there is a high risk of water pipes freezing.

 

This frozen blockage increases pressure in the pipe, increasing the risk of the pipe bursting.

 

In the event of a burst pipe:

 

Turn off water supply at the mains.

 

Make a temporary repair to the broken pipe by binding it with cloth or tape.

 

Call a professional plumber to fix your pipes.

 

Click here for some more advice on frozen and burst water pipes from Irish Water.

 

Prevention

 

Fix any leaking taps, pipes and external taps as these can cause pipes to freeze.

 

Insulate pipes

 

Keep the home warm, seal draughts and try to circulate the warm air throughout the home so pipes in the attic / basement do not freeze.

 

Flooding -

 

A huge amount of snow fell over the last few days.

 

All of this snow will now turn to water so there is a huge risk of flooding in many places.

 

In the event of flooding:

 

The urge will be to wade in and rescue valuables, but safety must be considered first.

 

Standing in water charged with electricity could be lethal.

 

Electricity and gas should be turned off from the mains.

 

Protective clothing should be worn i.e. gloves, welly boots, masks or respirators and eye protection.

 

Flood water can be full of bacteria and toxins, rubble and drift.

 

Don’t handle electrical appliances.

 

The longer the flood water sits and the home stays wet, the more damage occurs so the water must be removed.

 

Water pumps will make this job much easier, if available.

 

To aid in drying the home and preventing mold and mildew growth, the home needs plenty of air ventilation.

 

Click here for more help and advice on flooding from the Department of Defence.

 

Prevention

 

Find out if you live in a flood prone area.

 

Find out if there is a Flood Emergency Plan for your area.

 

Make sure your home is well sealed. Check for cracks, holes and draughts.

 

Consider flood barriers and sand bags.

 

Make sure you have protective clothing and safety equipment in the home.

 

 

Why not read our ‘Is Your Home Rainwater Ready’ blog for some more advice on water damage prevention.

 

 

Tags: water damage snow storms frozen pipes flood plans flood damage burst pipes