If your home is located in a flood zone, it’s critical that you know how to get ready for those drenching spring rains. Here are some basic steps any homeowner can take to prepare for potentially devastating floods.
Community Emergency Plans
Your community has an emergency plan in case of flooding. There are warning signals to alert residents, evacuation routes mapped out and the locations of emergency shelters are given. Get in touch with your community government center if you haven’t already received copies of these preparedness plans.
Have a Family Plan
Floods can be devastating. In an emergency, it’s key that every family member knows what to do and where to go. Plan an evacuation route with your family and practice it. Be sure everyone has the name, address and phone number of a family contact who lives out of state in case anyone is separated during a flood event.
Be Proactive
Get ready to prevent disaster. Turn off all electrical power to the home as soon as there is any standing water or before you vacate it. Also turn off gas and water supplies if you evacuate. Hire an electrician to raise your electrical outlets, circuit breakers and other electrical component so they are at least a foot above the home’s flood elevation mark.
Emergency Supplies to Have on Hand
Being prepared in a flood zone means having emergency supplies available all the time, just in case. Stock your home with supplies that will last at least five full days. Have about five gallons of clean water per person on hand. Stock up on canned foods or other non-perishable food items. Be sure to have a non-electric can opener. Place aside some prescription medications or any other specific medical needs, in addition to a first aid kit. Have a battery-powered radio on hand and extra batteries. Also have a few flashlights at the ready. Sleeping bags or extra blankets are needed, as are personal hygiene supplies like toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap and towels.
Prepare Your Home Well in Advance
Finally, you’ll want to check on a regular basis that your sump pump is in working order and have a battery-powered back up available. Get a water alarm so you’ll know if water is pooling in your basement. Have your gutters and downspouts cleaned out at least twice a year.
Living in a flood zone means that you’ll need to be prepared, and there’s no better time than now to start getting ready.