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Flood Damage And What It Means To You

Floods are the single most destructive natural disaster in the United States every year, occurring in all 50 states and causing hundreds of millions of dollars in damage to life and property.  They can occur anywhere, and at any time, no one is immune, and the damage they leave behind is overwhelming and traumatizing.

What can you do to protect yourself against flood damage?  Not much, but you can take steps that will make the recovery easier.

For starters, know your risk.  Find out if your home or business is located in a flood zone.  Check with your insurance agent to determine what may or may not be covered in the event of a flood.  Floods are not normally covered by homeowner’s policies, but coverage can be obtained for an additional fee.

Second, have a plan.  If a flood occurs, don’t wait…get out.  Riding out a flood is suicidal.  Six inches of moving water can knock a grown man over, and two feet of water can float a car.

Have a pre-planned evacuation route.  At the risk of insulting your intelligence, make sure the evacuation route leads to higher ground! 

Have a “go bag” packed and ready.  Fill it with a change of clothes for several days, extra cash, food, bottled water, a battery operated radio with extra batteries, and anything else you may need.

Do not return home until the all clear has been given by authorities, and then check for structural stability and make sure the electricity is off before entering.

Lastly, have the number of a local, IICRC certified flood damage repair company, one that is in on call 24/7 and able to handle all of your flood damage restoration needs.