An Easy Guide On How To Stay Safe From Floods
April 25, 2022
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Floods are a serious threat to people and property. They can happen anywhere, anytime. You need to know how to stay safe from floods.

This guide will teach about flood safety tips to save your life. We'll also go over what you should do if you find yourself in the middle of a flood or have been affected by one already. If you want to stay prepared for any natural disaster, then read on.

Preparing For A Flood

Learn and practice your local evacuation routes and shelter plans. Stock up on supplies, including non-perishable foods, cleaning supplies, and water for several days if you must leave immediately or if services are cut off in your area. 


Keep important documents in a waterproof casing and create a password-protected digital copy in an emergency. Protect your property. Move valuables to higher levels. Declutter drains and gutters. Install check valves and consider a sump pump with a battery.



What To Do During A Flood?

Evacuate your home when authorities advise you to evacuate. Don't swim or drive through floodwaters. The current will be too strong to counter. 


Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to direct traffic out of flooded areas safely. Listen to the radio or keep up to date on your mobile device. 


Get to the highest level if you're trapped in a building. Only get to the roof if necessary to signal for help. It would also be best to avoid climbing into enclosed spaces like attics and air ducts.



Staying Safe After A Flood

Listen to authorities for announcements and further instructions. Return home only when they say it is safe. Avoid driving except in emergencies, wear protective clothing and boots during clean-up, and use appropriate face coverings or masks to clean mold or other debris. 


Be aware that dangerous animals may be in your house. There is also the risk of electrocution, so be careful when entering the waters. Shut down the electricity to prevent electric shock if it is safe.


The water could be contaminated and contain harmful debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.


You can use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery only outdoors and away from windows.



Final Thoughts

Remember to keep an eye and ear out for any announcements on the radio or your mobile device. Safety protocols always apply during these disasters. Care for the elderly, children, disabled, and people with health conditions.


At Brad Spurgeon Insurance Agency Inc., we aim to provide comprehensive insurance policies that make your life easier. We want to help you get the insurance that fits your needs. You can get more information about our products and services by calling our agency at (409) 945-4746. Get your free quote today by CLICKING HERE. Coverage discussed in this article is not guaranteed. Please contact our agents today to ensure that your needs are being met and learn more about your policy. We are happy to help!

October 8, 2025
If you live near the Texas Gulf Coast, you’re no stranger to high winds, tropical storms, and hurricanes . Homeowners in coastal areas like Texas City, Texas, face unique challenges when it comes to protecting their properties. One of the most common questions people ask is whether windstorm insurance can be combined with other types of coverage—like homeowners, flood, or renters insurance—for better protection and easier management. The short answer? Yes, in many cases you can combine or coordinate windstorm insurance with other policies—but it’s important to understand how each type works and what’s covered. Understanding Windstorm Insurance Windstorm insurance provides protection against damage caused by strong winds, hurricanes, hail, and tornadoes. These events can cause extensive damage to roofs, siding, windows, and other structural elements of a home. In Texas, especially along the coast, many standard homeowners insurance policies exclude windstorm and hail coverage. Instead, property owners often need to purchase separate windstorm insurance through private insurers or through the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association (TWIA). Key Features of Windstorm Insurance Covers structural dam age caused by wind, hail, and flying debris Typically includes roof, windows, walls, and foundation repairs May include detached structures like garages or sheds Does not cover flood damage ca used by storm surge or rising water How Windstorm Insurance Works in Texas In coastal regions of Texas, homeowners often get windstorm coverage through TWIA, which is a state-managed program created to ensure residents can obtain insurance when private companies won’t provide it. To qualify for a TWIA policy, your property usually needs to: Be located in an eligi ble coastal county (such as Galveston County, where Texas City, Texas, is located) Meet specific building code requirements for wind resistance Be certified by the Texas Depart ment of Insurance (TDI) Can You Combine Windstorm Insurance with Other Policies? Yes—but not in the way many people expect. Windstorm insurance can be layered or coordinated with other types of coverage to create a more complete protection plan. Here’s how it typically works: 1. Homeowners Insurance + Windstorm Insurance Your homeowners policy covers general perils like fire, theft, and water leaks—but often excludes wind or hail damage if you live near the coast. Adding a windstorm policy ensures your property is protected from hurricane-force winds and other severe weather. Together, they provide a more comprehensive safety net for your home. 2. Windstorm Insurance + Flood Insurance It’s a common misconception that flood damage is covered under windstorm insurance—it’s not. Flood damage is handled through a separate flood insurance policy, typically backed by FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. Example: A hurricane hits Texas City, Texas, and your home suffers both roof damage from high winds and flooding from storm surge. You r windstorm policy would cover the roof and structural wind damage. Your floo d policy would cover water damage caused by rising floodwaters. To be fully protected, many coastal homeowners carry both windstorm and flood insurance in addition to their homeowners policy. 3. Renters and Condo Owners If you rent or own a condo near the coast: Renters: You can purchase a renters insurance policy for your personal belongings and add windstorm coverage if required by your lease or property manager. Condo Owners: Your condo association’s master policy may cover exterior wind damage, but you’ll likely need your own unit owner’s policy for interior damage and personal property. Benefits of Combining Coverage When properly coordinated, these policies offer: Compreh ensive protection: Covers wind, flood, and general property damage. Streamlined claims: Easier coordination between insurers when damage comes from multiple sources. Peace of mind: Confidence knowing you’re protected from Texas’s unpredictable weather. Customizable options: You can tailor deductibles and limits to fit your budget and risk level. Important Considerations Before Combining Policies Review y our exclusions: Make sure you know what each policy covers and excludes. Understand deductibles: Windstorm policies often have percentage-based deductibles, especially in hurricane zones. Keep documentation: Maintain proof of property inspections, certifications, and maintenance for claims. Work with a licensed local agent: An experienced insurance professional in Texas City, Texas, can help you compare coverage options, ensure compliance with TWIA requirements, and bundle policies where possible. Check for discounts: Some i nsurers offer multi-policy discounts when you bundle homeowners, auto, or flood insurance. The Bottom Line For homeowners along the Texas Gulf Coast, windstorm insurance is essential, but it shouldn’t stand alone. Combining it with homeowners and flood insurance creates a stronger shield against the financial fallout of hurricanes, tropical storms, and high winds. If you live in or near Texas City, Texas, talk to a local insurance professional about your options. They can help ensure your home and belongings are fully protected—no matter what the next storm season brings. At Brad Spurgeon Insurance Agency Inc., we aim to provide comprehensive insurance policies that make your life easier. We want to help you get insurance that fits your needs. You can get more information about our products and services by calling our agency at (409) 945-4746 . Get your free quote today by CLICKING HERE . Disclaimer: The information presented in this blog is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. It is crucial to consult with a qualified insurance agent or professional for personalized advice tailored to your specific circumstances. They can provide expert guidance and help you make informed decisions regarding your insurance needs.
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