A Quick Guide To Floods - What To Do Before, During And After

By Author: Leo Nov
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Floods are very common in the United States. Of course, those that live near coastal areas and in low-lying areas have greater risk to flood damage but all states experience flooding once in a while. Floods can be caused by manmade factors but most flooding is due to natural events like thunderstorms and hurricanes.
Major flood damage to properties can reach billions of dollars, not to mention the numerous lives that a severe flood claims and disrupts every year. As the government works to improve flood control and prepare cities against floods and natural disasters in general, every individual should take proactive steps to ensure the safety of their family and minimize the impact of floods.
During a Flood - Things to Do
Listen to the radio for flood-related news and announcements.
Place your emergency kit in a portable bag and keep it nearby so you can grab it quickly when you need to evacuate.
If authorities directed you to evacuate, you must do so right away.
If you feel unsafe in your home, even though authorities did not instruct you to evacuate, it may be best to leave your home ...
... and stay with a relative or a friend out-of-town or out-of-state.
When leaving your home, follow evacuation procedures and suggested routes issued by the authorities. Do not risk driving through shortcuts because they may be blocked.
Stay away from fast, running water and do not drive through floodwaters or cross a bridge where there is high and quick-moving water because the current can easily sweep your vehicle away.
After a Flood - Things to Do
Do not return home until you've received confirmation from local authorities that it is safe for you to go back home.
When entering a flooded building, watch out for weakened structures and other hazards like broken glass.
Contact a qualified electrician and have your electrical system and appliances checked first before using electricity in your home. It would be best to wait until the electrician has eliminated any electrical hazards in your home before re-entering.
Throw out household items including food items that have been exposed to floodwater.
Before drinking or using your home's water supply, contact local authorities first to find out whether it was not contaminated by floodwaters.
Notify your insurance agent of the incident immediately. Take pictures and/or a video of the flood damage for documentation.
How to Get Ready for a Flood
Having a plan in place for such emergencies like floods is the essence of disaster preparedness. Basically, a disaster plan involves three things - where to go, who to contact and what to do in case of a disaster or an emergency. Make sure to discuss the plan with everybody in your family and that your children understand what to do. It is recommended to conduct emergency drills. When you are in the middle of a crisis, having a plan can help save your life and the life of your loved ones.
Leo Nov is an editorial staff member of RestorationSOS.com, a leading service provider for fire damage cleanups. To learn more about water removal and restoration services, visit RestorationSOS.com