Are you prepared for flooding in your area?
Due to nature’s unpredicability, you never know when a flood might hit. And the danger only increases if you’re in a flood zone. It can be daunting to think of going through a flood though, and you might not know how to prepare.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help! Read on for these 5 tips on how to prepare for a flood to keep your family and your home safe.
1. Have Flood Insurance in Place
Check to see if it’s in a FEMA flood zone. You want to look for flood zone AE (or A1-A30). It’s easy to check this by going to online to the FEMA flood map tool.
If your home is medium to high risk, you need to get flood insurance right away. Standard home insurance won’t cover flood damage, whether you’re in flood zone AE or not.
2. Watch Out for Reports and Warnings
Weather reports aren’t accurate 100% of the time. There is no sure way to predict future weather events. But, for flood and storm warnings, it’s still a reliable source of information. Especially when it comes to prepping and giving you notice/time to organize.
Your local radio and TV station will usually give to-the-minute flood updates. This usually comes via social media, so make sure you’re following those. And if there is a hurricane or cyclone warning, it’s a safe bet to assume flooding will follow soon after.
3. Protect Your Valuables
You should move any valuable items to higher ground before a flood. If you have a second floor or attic, store eletrical items and other valuables there.
Any important documents you have should go in a waterproof container or safe. This includes things like:
- house deeds
- insurance documents
- social security details
- passports and certificates
It will protect them from water damage and mean you won’t lose important items or information.
4. Prepare Your Home
Before a flood hits, make sure your downspouts, gutters and drains are clear. This will reduce the chance of overflowing, which can cause even more damage to your home.
Gather any outdoor items that could get swept away. These items include:
- lawn furniture
- gardening tools
- kids toys
- trashcans
Gather it all and store it indoors. If you have a basement, then consider flood-proofing it as it will help protect your home further. Move all sockets and electrics to at least a foot above flood levels. Keep appliances and heating systems elevated. And make sure your plumbing has back-up/backflow valves.
5. Be Ready to Stay or Go
If you get the order to evacuate, make sure you’re ready to go right away. Have supplies in your car to last a few days so you can move out immediately.
If you don’t have to evacuate, keep a larger stock of supplies in your home. It should last you at least a week. These supply packs should include:
- non-perishable foods
- drinking water
- batteries and torches
- blankets
- dry, clean clothing
- medication supplies and first aid kit
Make sure to store these items up high enough for flood waters not to damage them.
How to Prepare For a Flood Made Easy
So, there you have it! If you follow these 5 tips, you’ll be all set on how to prepare for a flood.
Make sure you have the right insurance in place, and keep an eye on the weather. Prepare your home, inside and out, and have a plan. Be ready to evacuate or to stay, depending on advice.
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