Prepare for Floods: Tips for Staying Safe and Protected
Recent news has shown evacuation orders due to flooding in British Columbia. This raises the question: Are you ready for flooding in your community? Remember, flooding can happen anywhere with rainfall, regardless of past occurrences. Various factors determine flood risk, such as rainfall, river flow, topography, flood-control measures, and changes to the landscape from building and development. Living in low-lying areas, near water or downstream from a dam, or in developed regions increases flood risk.
To safeguard yourself from the risk of flooding, it’s highly recommended that you obtain flood insurance.
Before a Flood
Are you ready for the possibility of flooding on your property?
Even if you live in an area with a low risk of flooding, remember that any place where it rains can potentially flood. Factors such as rainfall, topography, flood-control measures, river-flow, and tidal-surge data, as well as changes due to new construction and development, can all contribute to flooding in an area.
Having a plan in place in case of a flood is crucial. You can start by checking if your property is located in a flood-prone area and what type of flood risks you may face. You can find this information by consulting flood maps, talking to your local emergency management officials, or checking with your insurance agent.
If you live in a flood-prone area, it’s wise to take preventative measures such as installing flood barriers, sealing walls and floors, and elevating electrical systems. You may also want to create an emergency kit that includes important documents, medications, food, water, and other necessities that you might need if you have to evacuate your home. Staying informed about the weather conditions in your area, particularly during heavy rainfalls or storms, is essential.
Listen to local news and emergency alerts for any flood warnings or updates. Remember that flooding can happen quickly and without warning, so being prepared is vital. By taking the necessary precautions, you can minimize the damage to your property and keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
To prepare for a flood, you should:
1 Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan. You can get help to make a family emergency plan from the Canadian Government website here
2 Avoid building in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce your home.
3 Elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk.
4 Consider installing “check valves” to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home.
5 If feasible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds
During a Flood
Stay tuned to the radio or television for updates and information.
Be aware that flash flooding can occur suddenly. Move immediately to higher ground if there is even a slight chance of a flash flood. Do not wait for instructions to evacuate.
Be mindful of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known for sudden flooding. Flash floods can happen in these places with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain.
If you need to prepare for evacuation, follow these steps:
Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture and move essential items to an upper floor.
Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
If you have to leave your home, keep these evacuation tips in mind:
Do not walk through moving water. Even six inches of moving water can cause you to fall. If you must walk in water, go where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground ahead of you.
Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the vehicle and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the car can be swept away quickly.
After a Flood
If your home has been flooded, it’s important to stay aware of potential dangers that may still exist. Here are some important things to remember in the days ahead:
1. Local alerts and warning systems provide information and expert advice as soon as available.
2. Avoid moving water and damaged areas unless police, fire, or a relief organization specifically request your help.
3. Stay off the roads and out of the way as emergency crews assist those in need.
4. Play it safe and be aware that additional flooding or flash floods may occur. Listen for local warnings and information. If your car stalls in rising waters, get out immediately and climb to higher ground.
5. Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
6. If you come upon a barricade or flooded road, take another route as roads may still be closed due to damage or flooding. Remember that barricades have been put in place for your protection.
If you must walk or drive in areas that have been flooded:
Please remember the following safety tips during a flood:
1. Stay on firm ground. Even moving water that is 15 centimeters (six inches) deep can easily sweep you off your feet. Additionally, standing water may have an electrical charge from underground or downed power lines.
2. Flooding can change familiar places. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways and may hide dangerous debris like broken glass or sharp objects. It’s also slippery, so avoid walking or driving through it.
3. Be careful when entering areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and a car’s weight could cause them to collapse.
4. Never enter any building if floodwaters surround it.
5. Exercise extreme caution when entering buildings. There could be hidden damage, especially in the foundations.
Staying Healthy
A flood can create physical hazards and emotional stress. As you concentrate on cleanup and repair, make sure to take care of yourself and your family.
AMC Insurance is your one stop for all your insurance needs. To find out more, visit us on facebook or our website or call us today.
