Safeguarding Your Home: Flood Preparedness And Protection

​Flooding is a natural disaster that can have devastating consequences, causing more deaths than any other hazard related to extreme precipitation. In this article, we will provide essential tips on how to prepare your home for a flood, emphasizing safety precautions during and after a flood event, and the importance of flood insurance in protecting your property.

Before the Flood:

1. Stay Informed: Keep yourself updated about weather conditions and flood warnings by listening to your local radio or television station. Monitoring official alerts is crucial to staying safe.
   
   
2. Emergency Supplies: Collect emergency supplies, including non-perishable food and water. Ensure you have at least one gallon of water per day for each person and pet, along with enough supplies to last at least three days.
   
   
3. Vaccination Records: Keep your vaccination records handy or know the year of your last tetanus shot. This information can be vital in case of injuries during a flood emergency. Store these records in a waterproof container to protect them from damage.
   
   
4. Secure Outdoor Items: Bring in or securely tie down outdoor items such as lawn furniture, grills, and trash cans to prevent them from causing damage or becoming projectiles.
   
   
5. Utilities: When evacuating, turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve to prevent hazards.
   
   
6. Evacuation: To ensure your safety, leave areas prone to flooding, such as low spots, canyons, and washes, if local authorities recommend evacuation.

During the Flood:

1. Never Drive Through Floodwaters: Most flood-related deaths occur from driving into floodwaters. Never attempt to drive through flooded areas or standing water, as vehicles can be swept away or stall in moving water.
   
   
2. Safe Water Usage: Do not consume floodwater and avoid using it for household tasks like washing dishes, brushing teeth, or preparing food. Use clean and safe water for these purposes.
   
   
3. Evacuation and Return: If you have evacuated, wait for local authorities to declare it safe before returning home. Follow their instructions to protect yourself and your loved ones.
   
   
4. Boil Water Advisories: Pay attention to boil water advisories issued by local authorities. During a water advisory, use bottled, boiled, or treated water only for drinking, cooking, and other household activities.
   
   
5. Food Safety: When in doubt, discard any food or bottled water that may have come into contact with floodwater. Safety is paramount.
   
   
6. Carbon Monoxide (CO) Safety: Take precautions to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. Keep generators at least 20 feet from doors, windows, and vents. Never run your car or truck inside an attached garage, even with open doors.

After the Flood:

1. Cleanup Safety: Floods can spread diseases, chemicals, and cause injuries. Practice safe cleaning by removing contaminated items, using a bleach solution to disinfect, and following recommendations from FEMA.
2. Avoid Direct Contact: Take precautions to avoid direct contact with floodwater and potential hazards during cleanup.

Importance of Flood Insurance:
While taking proactive steps to prepare for a flood is essential, having adequate flood insurance is equally crucial. Flood insurance can help protect your property and belongings from the financial impact of flood damage, providing you with peace of mind in the face of this natural disaster.

Conclusion:
Flood preparedness is a critical aspect of safeguarding your home and family. By following safety guidelines and having flood insurance in place, you can minimize the risks associated with flooding and ensure that you are well-prepared to face this challenging situation. Remember that proactive planning today can make all the difference in protecting your home and loved ones tomorrow.

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.