The Federal Emergency Management Agency offers the following tips to prepare for flooding:
Before a Flood
• Have a safety kit with drinking water, a first-aid kit, canned food, a radio, flashlight and blankets.
• Know safe routes from home, work and school that are on higher ground.
• Protect your property. Most homeowners insurance does not cover flooding. Make sure that your flood insurance policy is up to date.
During a Flood
• If flooding occurs, go to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc.
• Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
• Roadbeds may be washed out under flood waters. NEVER drive through flooded roadways. If your vehicle is suddenly caught in rising water, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.
After a Flood
• Do not turn electricity back on in your home if you detect gas or if the electrical system has been flooded.
• Clean and disinfect everything that was touched by floodwaters or mudflows and throw out any such foodstuffs.
• Follow directions from local officials regarding the safety of drinking water.
Flood insurance is available through approximately 90 insurance companies in more than 20,400 participating communities nationwide. Most everyone can purchase flood insurance – renters, business owners and homeowners – and last year a quarter of all claims paid by the National Flood Insurance Program were for policies in low to moderate risk areas. In low to moderate risk areas, lower-cost Preferred Risk Policies (PRPs) start at less than $120 a year. Individuals can learn more about their flood risk and how to protect their property by visiting FloodSmart.gov or by calling 1-800-427-2419.
FEMA coordinates the federal government’s role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or manmade, including acts of terrorism.
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