Rain is a funny thing, there’s either not enough or way too much. It’s welcome at first as plants start to grow, but the line from a nice spring rain to water in the basement and washed-out roads is thin. This article is designed as Flood Readiness Tips to help you stay safe and informed.

Being prepared for a flood can not only save your business or home, it can save lives. Here are some tips for having a flood plan and a flood kit ready and what to do during and after a flood.

When It’s Not Flooding: Flood Plan

It’s important to know your flood risk and keep your Flood Insurance up to date if necessary. This Flood Safety Plan needs to start with the basics; things like communication and a meeting place are important.

When making your plan, consider the following questions:

• How will we get alerts and warnings?
• How will we get to a safe place and where is our safe place?
• How will we get in touch if we don’t have working phones or internet?
• How will I let my loved ones know I’m safe?
• How will we get to a safe meeting place after the emergency?
  
  

Every member of your household should know what to do before disaster strikes and where to go. Keep all contact information handy. And don’t forget about your four-legged friends; make sure they are a part of your plan, especially if you have to escape.

After you have your plan in place, make sure it is posted somewhere everyone can find it easily. Make sure to practice and review it, like a fire drill. This serves as your Flood Preparedness Checklist.

When It’s Not Flooding: Basic Disaster Supplies Kit

Put together a kit and keep it somewhere easy to grab. Add a copy of your contact list and flood plan.

Some of the suggested items include water, non-perishable food, battery-powered radio, flashlights and extra batteries, first aid kit, whistle, dust masks, plastic sheeting and duct tape, moist towelettes, garbage bags, wrench or pliers, manual can opener and local maps. This collection forms your Flood Emergency Kit.

Add or subtract to this list as needed, these are just some of the basics. Additional items that should be included are extra cash, pet food, prescriptions, blankets, important family documents, matches and ways to keep kids occupied.

If you already have a first aid kit, make sure it is complete and replenish what is missing. Don’t forget items like a thermometer and plenty of bandages. Periodically review your kit and replace expired food, medicines or other supplies.

Alerts: Watch vs. Warning

If the alert goes out for a Flood Watch and Warning , you need to be aware of what is happening in your area. Pay attention to weather reports and be prepared to evacuate to higher ground. Have your flood plan and kit ready. Get your home ready by moving in outdoor furniture and disconnecting appliances.

When the alert changes to a Flood Warning Safety condition, you need to take action. Evacuate to higher ground, whether that means the second floor of your home or leaving your house for a safer place. Do not walk through standing or moving water.

It’s Flooding!!!

If you are driving and a flash flood occurs, always remember to Turn Around, Don’t Drown®. Avoid walking or driving through flood waters, you never know how deep or fast they are. Just 6” of water can knock you down and a foot of water can sweep away a vehicle.

Move to higher ground, in or out of a vehicle. However, do not leave your car and enter moving water, go to the top of the vehicle and wait for help. This is a critical part of Flood Evacuation Plan best practices.

After The Flood

Do not return to your home until it has been declared safe to do so by authorities. Be aware in areas where flooding has occurred and watch out for debris. Roads and walkways are easily eroded by flood water.

Do not drive or walk through standing or moving water, this cannot be stressed enough. Avoid standing water, as it may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
When you do get to your home or business, make sure to photograph any and all damage for insurance purposes. These steps are essential for Post-Flood Safety Guidelines. 

Be prepared and stay safe. For more information, head to https://www.ready.gov/floods and check our article on how to be prepared for storms in your farm.

Do you have some tips we missed? Drop a comment below. Need further assistance? Give our experts a call today at 888-433-5275.