The National Weather Service outlook shows that there is a high risk for spring flooding. You can see the entire flood outlook on the National Weather Service website here. In order to best serve you, I will be providing weather outlooks and updates this spring to help keep you informed and safe.
Below is some information to help you and your family safely prepare for a potential flood.
Educate Yourself
After getting flood insurance, there are several things you can
do to minimize losses in your home and ensure your family’s safety.
1. Safeguard your possessions.
Create a personal “flood file” containing information about all
your possessions and keep it in a secure place, such as a safe deposit
box or waterproof container. This file should have:
- A copy of your insurance policies with your agent’s contact
information.
- A room-by-room inventory of your possessions, including
receipts, photos, and videos.
- Copies of all other critical documents, including finance
records or receipts of major purchases.
2. Prepare your house.
- First make sure your sump pump is working and then install a
battery-operated backup, in case of a power failure. Installing a water
alarm will also let you know if water is accumulating in your basement.
- Clear debris from gutters and downspouts.
- Anchor any fuel tanks.
- Raise
your electrical components (switches, sockets, circuit breakers,
and wiring) at least 12 inches above your home’s projected flood
elevation.
- Place the furnace, water heater, washer, and dryer on cement
blocks at least 12 inches above the projected flood elevation.
- Move furniture, valuables, and important documents to a safe
place.
3. Develop a family emergency plan.
- Create a safety kit with drinking water, canned food, first
aid, blankets, a radio, and a flashlight.
- Post emergency telephone numbers by the phone and teach your
children how to dial 911.
- Plan and practice a flood evacuation route with your family.
Know safe routes from home, work, and school that are on higher ground.
- Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to be your emergency
family contact.
- Have a plan to protect your pets.
For more information on emergency preparation, talk to your
insurance agent or visit Ready.gov.
Stay Safe During a Flood
