As we have read and viewed the media describing the disastrous effect of Hurricanes Harvey on Texas and Irma in Florida, reminiscent of our own in 1938, we’re reminded of other weather difficulties here in the Northeast.

These include storms Gloria plus Sandy and a large, sudden unnamed rainstorm in July 2009 that flooded basements, destroyed trees, damaged rural bridges and caused major power outages.

A review of the July 2009 events alone indicated that a majority of basement pump-outs by local fire departments could have been avoided if homeowners had been more pro-active to protect their properties. Part of the problem was the attitude of “this never happened to me before.”

And although some houses already had sump pumps, they were useless without electric power.

So, here are some basic homeowner recommendations to consider:

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[naviga:li]Install a strong 110 VAC sump pump in the lowest part of your basement with proper drainage to an outside area away from the house.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Install a 12 volt battery-backup sump pump with the above to allow for short power failures when you’re not home to deal with them.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Install an actual emergency generator, either portable or stationary, large enough to power a refrigerator, freezer, heater, sump pump and lighting, with enough reserve for “start-up” power surges on all of these. Try to buy from sources that can provide local service for such equipment, not just sales outlets unable to help you later. Engines always need to be properly serviced.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Have a fuel supply (gasoline, diesel or propane) stored safely outside the house to provide generator power for at least three full days or more.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]For better safety and convenience, and to avoid using too many extension cords, have an electrician install a separate sub-panel circuit breaker box for generator use. Test all devices at least monthly.[/naviga:li]

[naviga:li]Also consider basement waterproofing and possible exterior drainage ditches to restrict water and route it away from the house.[/naviga:li]

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Yes, the above suggestions might cost money, depending on what you buy. I’ve seen 3,000-watt generators that can handle a sump pump, refrigerator and some lights, with enough fuel to run all night, costing less than $500 at a local hardware service store in Groton. That’s not expensive, covers the basic needs and is how my wife and I started years ago before expanding our house.

In conclusion, there is the old saying “Heaven helps those who help themselves.” If 50 of your neighbors need their basements pumped and you’re No. 51 on the list, you’ll be wet for a long time. Protect yourselves to avoid being part of the problem.

Ed Johnson lives in Noank.