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Follow These Flood Preparedness Tips Now, or Regret it Later

Follow These Flood Preparedness Tips Now, or Regret it Later

Floods are arguably the most dangerous natural disaster weather event. They usually occur the most after hurricanes or heavy rainfall. Making matters worse in this kind of scenario is flash flooding, which is when bodies of water spill over their banks. Floods happen quickly and unexpectedly, potentially causing massive damage to land and property. Statistics from the Red Cross tell us that the leading cause of weather-related events is flash flooding, because of water filling up sometimes in minutes flat. With the right knowledge and supplies, you can survive a flood and save lives. These flood preparedness tips will give you and your family the best chance of survival. 

Flood Disaster Prep for Home

If you notice a hurricane or a storm with heavy rainfall is approaching, you can take steps to reduce any damage that could happen. Even if your home isn’t in a location that is prone to floods, taking these steps can save time, money and property loss that come along with water damage. In addition to the following, contacting your insurance company and securing important personal documents are also essential.

  • Barricade your property - If you have the funds to purchase pre-made barriers and a place to store them in your home, this can be a great disaster prep investment. However, other barrier items like sandbags are inexpensive and can be placed around your house’s perimeter and reduce flood damage.
  • Remove outdoor items - anything outside items that can be blown away by wind or swept away by floods should be removed if possible. This includes appliances, furniture or anything else outside or in a basement, etc. If they can’t be removed, consider using concrete blocks to elevate them out of harm’s way.
  • Protect electrical items - floods and electricity make a terrible match - and possibly a deadly one. Before a hurricane or a heavy rainfall comes in, unplug any electrical items you aren’t immediately using. If a flood does hit, be sure to shut off your home’s main power source and steer clear of electrical equipment. Also be sure to shut off your natural gas connections as well. Make sure to keep your family away from any downed power lines, which can cause fatal electrocutions.

Flood Disaster Prep for Family

One of the best ways you can prepare for a flood is to talk with your family and make them aware of the dangers and how to deal with them. 

  • Power outages - Major flooding often causes power loss, so be sure to stock up on supplies that you can use if you have no electricity.
  • Build your survival kit - there are simple and inexpensive items you can add to your disaster survival kit. Floods often cause damage to water supplies, so stocking up on water is essential. Food, water and medical supplies are essential. You can read up on More Prepared’s suggestions for building survival kits and other flood preparedness tips here.
  • Stay informed - be sure to stay up to date on weather alerts. However, you won’t be able to use your mobile devices in a power outage. Storing a battery-powered or crank-operated radio will help you stay updated on important weather alerts.

Flood Disaster Prep for Travel 

Another important flood preparedness tip is to practice your emergency evacuation routes. Be sure that your family knows how to get out of your home quickly and safely, as well as understanding the evacuation routes. However, high flood waters will almost surely prevent your engine from running. Additionally, major injuries are caused by people trying to evacuate and underestimating the flood levels, so stay as informed as possible before venturing out during a disaster.

Fail to Plan, Plan to Fail

All natural disasters have an unpredictable nature, but floods could be the worst - due to how fast the waters rise and spread. Taking these steps will help you ensure that your family survives, and it could even save a life in the process.

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