There are some things that you can do to protect your family and keep your property losses to a minimum.  Find out if your home is at risk by consulting the county flood maps.  If your home is at risk, purchase flood insurance.  Flood insurance is guaranteed by the Nation Flood Insurance Program.  Your Home Owner’s Insurance Policy will not cover flood damage!  Consult your home owner’s insurance agent to purchase flood insurance.  Don’t wait for a flood to buy flood insurance.  It usually takes 30 days for the policy to go into effect.  Some other things that you can do include: Have a disaster plan with multiple evacuation routes.  Practice it.  Have a disaster kit.

If you have time before the flood, turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve.  Move valuable to the upper level or higher ground.  Fill your bath tubs, sinks, and plastic bottles with clean water.  Bring outdoor items such as lawn furniture inside or tie them down.

When the Flood Arrives

 Don’t drive through flooded areas. (See sidebar) 
 
 Don’t walk through flooded areas.  It takes as little as 6 inches of moving water to knock you off of your feet.
 
 Watch out for stray/wild animals.  They will lose their homes in a flood too.  They may seek shelter in yours.
 
 Watch out for and stay clear of downed power lines.
 
 If water starts coming into your home before you can evacuate, go to a higher level or even the roof if you have too.  Take your disaster kit with you.
 
 Don’t try to swim to safety, wait for rescuers to come to you.
 

After the Flood

 If your home has suffered damage, call your insurance agent.
 
 Inspect the building foundation for cracks or other damage before attempting to enter.  Do not go in if there is any suspicion of that the building is unsafe.
 
 If you go inside the building, do not use cigarettes, lighters, or other open flames.
 
 Keep power off until your electrical system can be inspected by a qualified electrician.
 
 Be careful when walking around.  The floors can become very slippery.
 
 Clean your home as soon as possible.  Flood waters will pick up chemicals from the road, neighboring farms and businesses, and sewage.  Throw out food and medications that may have come into contact with floodwater.
 

When it comes time to rebuild, take steps to make your home more flood resistant.  Consult your builder and our local building codes.