Flood Tips

4/24/2023 (Permalink)

Preparing yourself and your home is important if you live in a flood-susceptible area. Adequate flood safety knowledge can help lessen injury, damage

While natural disasters are simply out of your control, preparing for a disaster is something you can see to. If you live in an area where floods are possible, there are some things you can do before, during, and after to minimize damage. Here are some safety tips at each stage of a flood.

Before a Flood

Floods are particularly devastating because they happen with little to no notice and can cause significant damage, injuries and even death. Although you can’t prevent this unexpected event, here are some flood safety preparation tips:

• Install non-carpet flooring
• Prepare an updated emergency kit
• Find out where relocation centers are located
• Make sure you have flood insurance
• Store important documents in a waterproof container
  
  

During a Flood

If your safety is not in jeopardy and you have time to prepare your home for a flood, you can lessen the amount of damage that occurs. First, move furniture, rugs, electronics, and valuable items to higher ground. Second, make sure you have your important documents either stored in a waterproof case or bring them with you if you’ll be leaving. Other safety tips include listening to the local radio for warnings and instructions, grabbing an emergency kit with essential supplies to take with you, and shutting off all utilities. If possible, empty your fridge and freezer and leave doors open to minimize damage if they float.

After a Flood

Flood safety is paramount to preventing injury and loss. Never let your children play near floodwaters and never attempt to drive into water of unidentified depth. Once it’s safe to return to your home, the best thing you can do to minimize loss or harm is to contact a water damage specialist. If you feel it’s safe to enter your home, exercise extreme caution because walls and ceilings may be compromised. Check for damage and take pictures for insurance claims.
Preparing yourself and your home is important if you live in a flood-susceptible area. Adequate flood safety knowledge can help lessen injury, damage and death.