Long term car parking,Flood prone areas
Preparing Your Car for Long-Term Parking in Flood-Prone Areas
When living in areas prone to heavy rainfall and flooding, like Bengaluru, taking precautions to protect your parked car is paramount. In this guide, we'll walk you through some of the key steps to prepare your car for long-term parking in flood-prone areas.
Choose a Safe Spot
Location is everything when it comes to protecting your car from flood damage. If your parking area is prone to flooding, aim to park on a higher level, if possible. If you only have access to flat parking, select a spot that’s at a higher elevation compared to the rest of the area.
Invest in a High-Quality Car Cover
A water-resistant car cover can provide an additional layer of protection against water. Not only will it shield your vehicle from dust and debris, but it also can help keep it dry during a flood.
Seal Your Car
Before leaving your car for a long period, ensure all windows, doors, and other openings are securely closed. This can prevent water from entering the car, which can cause substantial damage to the interior.
Avoid Using the Handbrake
If you’re leaving your car unused for a long period, it’s generally advised not to engage the handbrake. Over time, the brake pads and discs can stick together. Instead, consider using wheel chocks to keep the car from moving.
Check Drainage
Good drainage in the parking area can prevent water from accumulating and reaching your car. If the drainage is inadequate, consult with building management or a professional to see if improvements can be made.
Ensure Adequate Insurance Coverage
Check your car insurance policy to ensure it covers damage from natural disasters, including flooding. If it doesn’t, consider adding this coverage.
Disconnect the Battery
Disconnecting the battery can prevent it from draining while your car is not in use. It also helps protect the electrical systems in case of minor flooding.
Remember, these steps can reduce the risk, but they can’t eliminate it completely. If there’s a major flood, a basement parking area might not be a safe place for your car. Stay informed about weather forecasts and move your car to a safer place if there’s advance warning of a flood.
In the end, the safety of you and your loved ones is the most important thing. A car can be replaced, but people cannot. Stay safe!