flood insuranceFlooding is inevitable. Every time it rains, there’s a possibility of flooding. You may think that you are living in an area free from flooding but this may turn out not to be the case. Flood can occur nearly everywhere in North Carolina. It is therefore important that you how to prepare for flood season in case you suffer from a flood emergency.

A crucial point to note is that your renters or homeowners insurance doesn’t cover any damages caused by flooding. There are custom made insurance programs that we can discuss with you. You can contact us or email us for more information, especially if you live within North Carolina.

How to prepare for a flood

There are a number of steps recommended by the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) on how to keep you and your family safe during flooding. It is essential for you to:

  • Have an emergency kit. This should contain the most essential things that you and your family can use in such times. Drinking water, a 2 week supply of non-perishable food stuff, a first aid kit, important medications, copies of vital documents, extra batteries, flashlights and a radio are some of the things that shouldn’t miss in your emergency kit.
  • Put in place a communication system. This is a great way to make sure that you and your family members are able to reach each other.
  • Raise your furnace, electric panel and water heater. This is a MUST do if you live in a high flood risk area.
  • Install check valves that will prevent any food water from flooding the drains of your house.
  • Construct barriers that will prevent food water from entering any part of your home. These barriers are good for waterproofing compounds and sealing basement walls.

How to act during a flood

In the likelihood of a flood, it is important that you take fast measures such as:

  • Stay updated on any developing news. This is why a radio should be one of the things in your emergency kit.
  • Move to a more elevated area. Do not wait for somebody to give you instructions.
  • If there’s a need for an evacuation, move all the items that you will need to an upper floor. Make sure that your home is secured.
  • Turn off electrical appliances and utilities. However you should by all means avoid touching any electrical appliance of you are standing in water or are wet.
  • Avoid walking through moving water as this can make you fall.
  • Do not drive in flooded areas. If you are caught in a flood, abandon your car and look for a safer and higher ground to take refuge in.
  • Do not return to your home if you have evacuated until the authorities tell you that it’s safe to do so.

How to cope after a flood

Flooding can make one suffer emotionally and physically. You have to take into account how you and your family are doing after such a situation.

Avoid drinking or coming into contact with any floodwater as it is normally contaminated by sewage, oil and gasoline. You should also clean and disinfect every item that has come into contact with the water.

There is a book called Repairing Your Flooded Home by the Red Cross Society. This book will give you useful information on how to clean up the aftermath of a flood. Do not hesitate to also get in touch with us for help. If you happen to be insured against floods, contact your insurance provider for any claims as soon as possible.

The greatest way to prepare for flood damage is to get a North Carolina Flood Insurance policy. Call us at 866-869-3335 and let us help you get protected!

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