Preparations
Prepare for flooding
- Be aware of any areas near your home or in your community known to flood suddenly. Flash flooding is of particular concern, and may occur without any warning such as heavy rain.
- Look around your home, especially in the basement and near lower-level floors to see if there are any areas where water seepage can occur. Waterproofing might be necessary.
- Listen to local news reports about potential floods.
- Do not walk or drive through moving water. As little as 6 inches can make you lose your balance and fall.Use a stick to check how deep the water is and if the ground is firm when walking.
- Prepare a disaster kit and plan that includes what to do in case of flooding.
- Secure your home. Bring outdoor furniture and other items inside.
- Turn off utilities (electricity, water, oil, gas) before you leave
- Fill your car's tank at the first sign of trouble.
- Learn how to swim!
- Purchase lifejackets and place in home and car if possible.
- Move valuables to higher ground if possible.
- Bring important documents, including insurance papers with you.
- Lock your house before you leave.
- Stay out of flood waters
- Watch for pollution, chemicals, raw sewerage
- Falling through an open manhole is no fun!
What about flood insurance? Flood losses are not covered under homeowners’ insurance policies, so you must purchase a separate insurance policy for flood damages.
FEMA manages the National Flood Insurance Program, which makes federally-backed flood insurance available in communities that agree to adopt and enforce floodplain management ordinances to reduce future flood damage.
You can obtain flood insurance through insurance agents. Check your homeowner’s insurance company to see if they also issue flood insurance. You may also want to shop around for the best rates.
There is a 30-day waiting period before flood insurance goes into effect, so try to obtain flood insurance as soon as possible. Flood insurance is available for building and contents and even available for buildings not identified as in a flood-prone area.
