Flood Protection

Flood Protection

Almost anywhere it rains, it can flood. Even if you live in an area of that you think isn’t at risk, preparation is critical. Flooding is one of the most common hazards in the United States. Don’t be caught off guard!

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends several steps to stay safe during emergencies and limit damage from flooding.

• Build an emergency kit for your family containing such items as drinking water and nonperishable food for each member of your family (two-week supply), flashlights, a radio, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, necessary medications, personal hygiene items and copies of important documents.
• Create a communication plan so family members can reach one another.
• Elevate your furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home if live in an area with a high flood risk.
• Consider installing “check valves” to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home.
• If possible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering your home and seal basement walls with waterproofing compounds.

If weather conditions make a flood likely in your area, quick action may be necessary to protect your family and property.

• Get up to date information from the radio or television.
• Move immediately to higher ground if there is any possibility of a flash flood. Do not wait for instructions to move.
• If you need to evacuate, secure your home and move essential items to an upper floor. Turn off utilities if instructed to do so, and disconnect electrical appliances. However, do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
• Do not walk through moving water — it can make you fall. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
• Do not drive into flooded areas. If you are caught in your vehicle in floodwater, abandon your car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
• If you have evacuated your home, do not return until authorities tell you it is safe.
• If you have flood insurance, contact the claims center of your provider as soon as possible.

It is important to note that flood damage is typically not covered by your homeowners or renters insurance. There are specialized flood insurance programs that we at Pelorus Financial Group can discuss with you. Contact us at 440-991-9991 for more information if you live in Ohio or Pennsylvania.