Spring Flooding

4/25/2021 (Permalink)

The importance of flood insurance.

Although flooding can happen at any time, Spring flooding is common as frequent storms leave the ground soaked and streams are often at their highest levels of the year.  Here are some tips for both families and businesses.

First, take advantage of a free App called the SERVPRO Emergency Ready Plan (ERP).  To learn more about this app and how it can prepare your business and minimize business interruptions click HERE for a brief video.  This app is also extremely useful for homeowners in preparing for a variety of disasters.

• Make a family emergency communication plan and include pets.
• Have emergency supplies in place at home, at work, and in the car.
• Flood insurance takes 30 days to take effect, so purchase now to protect your family!
• Listen to local officials by radio, TV or social media.
• Evacuate when advised by authorities or if you are in a flood or flash flood prone area.
• If you are on high ground above flooded areas, being prepared to stay where you are may be the best protection.
• Don't let your business end up in a dumpster. Make a Flood Safety plan today.
• Charge mobile devices. Locate flashlights & radio. Tell friends/family your location in case of power loss.
• Heavy rain to areas that have been experiencing drought can cause flash flooding.

If you do need to venture out during or immediately after a flood, follow these rules:

• Don’t drive or walk through flood waters
• Water moving at just 5 miles per hour can lift and displace manhole covers leaving unseen dangers
• As little as 12 inches of moving floodwater can be enough to float and carry away a small vehicle.
• 6 inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet. STAY AWAY from moving water!
• Driving thru 6 inches of standing water can cause vehicles to lose control & stall. Avoid flooded roads.
• Be aware of areas where waters have receded. Roads may have weakened & could collapse under the weight of a vehicle.

Personal Property

• 30: The number of days it takes for flood insurance to begin. Don’t wait until it’s too late!
• Only flood insurance will cover the damage from floods. Speak with your insurance agent to learn more.
• A few inches of water in a 1,000-square foot home could cost more than $10,000 in repairs & replacement of personal possessions
• Prepare for a flood today by reviewing your property & flood insurance policies.
• Snap some pictures of your property & do an inventory. This will be handy if flood waters damage your property. Again, consider using the SERVPRO Ready Plan App.
• Flood waters can damage important papers. Store critical docs in a waterproof container or electronically.
• Before a flood: reduce potential property damage by elevating utilities & installing sewer backflow valves.
• Prepare before a flood by installing a water alarm in your basement.

After a Flood

• Watch your step! Flood waters often hide sharp and dangerous debris like broken glass and metal!
• Wear the appropriate protective clothing and gear like boots, gloves and safety glasses when it comes to moving debris!  
• Hands off! Stay away from electrical utility equipment after a storm or if it is wet to prevent being electrocuted!
• Flooded homes are hazards! Get a professional to check for loose wires, mold and hidden damage before re-entering!
• Avoid walking in floodwater. It can be contaminated with oil, gasoline, or sewage.
• Use generators or other gas powered machinery only outdoors and away from windows.