Preparing for a Flood Before a Storm

Whether it is caused by thunderstorms, tropical storms, or hurricanes, flood waters can affect your home and property without notice.

Therefore, it is important to develop a flood emergency action plan before the storm.

Here are a few tips to help get you started.

Before the Storm Brings Potentially Dangers Floodwaters

One of the best ways to prepare for flooding conditions is to understand how your home or neighborhood is impacted by rain. Visit FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center to familiarize yourself with flood risks in your area. Knowing your elevation is a good starting point. This will allow you to adequately prepare during flash floods, and rising storm waters.

Next, prepare a flood plan, including your pets’ safety, emergency supplies for you and your family, securing important documents, and access to evacuation routes and shelter plans, so you can effectively travel to safety.

Flood damage is not usually covered by homeowners’ insurance, so do not assume your policy includes coverage. Check your policy before a storm strikes, so you know what is and is not covered.

If you need coverage, contact FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program to explore federally backed flood insurance available to residents and business owners in certain areas, as part of your pre-disaster flood mitigation and insurance protection program.

During the Flooding Stage

If you are evacuating your home because of dangerous flooding, never attempt to cross roads or bridges covered in flowing water. Nearly half of all people killed in floods are those who try driving through flooded areas.

Never drive around barricades, as they are there for your protection.

If your vehicle stalls in flood waters, immediately exit the vehicle, and leave it. Your life is more important than your vehicle.

Never attempt to walk through flooded water, as it is nearly impossible to see what is inside. This can lead to severe injuries, including cuts, punctures, and infections to open wounds.

If you cannot evacuate the area, safely get to higher ground, and wait for help.

After the Flood Has Recessed

Even if you believe it is safe to return to your home, avoid any potential disaster areas, so you do not interfere with emergency operations.

Never handle live electrical equipment in wet areas.

Be sure to throw out any food that encountered floodwaters. Likewise, do not drink your home’s water without boiling it first, until you know it is safe.

If your home or possessions have suffered damage, document all instances of harm by recording the issues and taking pictures.

If you have homeowners’ insurance, but are not sure if flood and water damage is covered by your policy, contact our public adjusters at StormClaim.com today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can produce solutions for your unique recovery needs by calling 844-967-8676, so you do not have to face the insurance company alone.