MARQUETTE COUNTY, Mich. (WZMQ) – Marquette County Emergency Management and the Michigan State Police are asking residents to take precautions as flooding affects the area.
Residents should not enter flooded basements if water covers electrical outlets, if cords are submerged, or if there are signs of electrical activity such as sparks, buzzing, snapping, or popping. Do not touch electrical equipment in wet conditions or while standing in water. Turn off electricity at the main switch if it can be done safely.
The collapse of flooded basements is possible when water is rapidly pumped from basements surrounded by saturated soils whose pressure exceeds the capacity of the basement walls. The weight of saturated soil applies pressure on basement walls and floors and can cause them to buckle inward or collapse. If water is allowed to enter the basement, the hydrostatic pressure becomes equalized, and the walls are much less likely to fail.
There is a recommended rate to pump. Test the rate of water coming in by marking the wall and drawing down a foot of water. If the water level has not changed after 24 hours, draw down another foot of water and mark the new level. Wait another 24 hours. When the water level has remained down, begin to draw down 2-3 feet of water every 24 hours until the basement is empty. Use only submersible pumps designed for flooded conditions and operate equipment safely outdoors or with proper electrical precautions. Avoid using gasoline-powered equipment indoors due to carbon monoxide risk.
Citizens are advised never to walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. Even six inches of moving water can knock a person down, and two feet can sweep away a vehicle. Avoid all contact with floodwater if possible. Move important items to higher floors if time allows, and shut off utilities at the main switches if it is safe to do so. For more safety tips, click here.
