Flooding is the number one natural disaster in the United States, according to the Federal Emergency Management Agency. It impacts more homeowners and businesses than any other weather-related event. Heavy rain is often considered the primary cause, but it can occur just as easily from storm surge, snow melt, and spring thaw.
Government data shows every state has seen a flood in the last five years. Thus, it’s likely to happen again this year. Know what do do before a flood. There is plenty you can do to protect yourself, home, or business before a flood:
Plan
Everyone’s flood plan will be different, depending upon where you live. Consider the most likely cause of flooding in your area and develop your strategy accordingly. For example, here on the Eastern Shore of Virginia, our biggest flood concern is storm surge. Thus, we stay abreast of storm and hurricane tracks and develop our plan to suit. Incorporate:
- Where would you go to be safe if a flood were to occur?
- What, if any, belongings would you move? How? For example, would you empty your garage since it is lowest? Would you put all your furniture on the second story? What about outbuildings?
- Can your premises be modified in any way to reduce the risk of flood damage?
- Put together a communication list. If a flood were to occur, who would you need to contact? Be sure to include relatives, insurance companies, and insurance agents.
Put together an emergency kit. At a minimum these include a 72-hour supply of food and water. Other good items are flashlights with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, rain gear, a change of clothing, and toiletries. FEMA has some other examples of what to put in a flood readiness kit.
Prepare
Your planning most likely raised issues that need to be addressed. Get them done. For example, my sister lives in New Hampshire on a lush streamside bend. The house is an older farm-style and thus was not built as high as current code requires. Her yard and entire basement has flooded several times. In preparation for spring thaw, each year she ensures the sump pump is working, moves any items in the basement to higher ground, and moves yard items that could be damaged or wash away.
Flood Insurance
But the unexpected happens. That’s why your preparation should include a call to your insurance agent. Bankers Insurance can quote your flood insurance through both the National Flood Insurance Program and the private market. Elevation certificates are no longer required. Call us at (877) 606-1375 or request a quote online. Visit our flood insurance web page for more detail and information.
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