Springtime can bring rains and melting snow that cause flooding. Floods can develop quickly and are unpredictable. They also are very dangerous. Don’t get caught unprepared. These steps will help keep you and your family safe.
- Find out if you are in a flood-prone area. If so, learn about your community’s flood plans, evacuation routes, notification services, and locations of safe areas.
- Practice a flood evacuation plan with your family. This should include steps to take at your home before you leave (turning off electrical and gas power, handling valuables, and securing unsafe items). You should also know where to meet at a safe point if you are separated, and everyone should have access to an emergency contact, which should be a friend or relative outside of the potential flood zone.
- Keep a stock of emergency supplies in the event that you are stranded in your home by floodwaters and unable to leave.
- Keep your family’s tetanus vaccinations up to date.
- Talk with your insurance agent about your homeowners’ or renters’ insurance. If you are not covered for flooding, contact the National Flood Insurance Program at FloodSmart.gov.
- Secure important documents in a fire- and water-proof container. This should include copies of critical documents such as birth certificates and passports, a copy of your homeowners insurance, and an inventory of the items in your home.
Article provided by Bluegreen Carpet and Tile Cleaning in Madison