When floods occur from flash flooding (sudden rapid rising of water along streams or low-lying areas) Severe Thunderstorms, Tropical Storms and Hurricanes, the streets and your yard could be covered.
If you are under a flood or flash flood warning monitor the weather closely in case, you may have to prepare to evacuate and head out for higher ground.
Keep your cell phone charged and be alert to the weather stations for information. Have a Radio on hand to local stations in your area. Don’t forget to keep stocked up on batteries.
Stay Out of The Water
Walking through standing or moving water can be hazardous. Only 6 inches of moving water above your ankles can make you fall. Standing water can also build up microorganisms that contaminate and cause skin disease.
Electricity and Water Do Not Mix
The number two cause of death due to flooding is electricity wires and power lines down and even in the water. Electricity can make a pond or standing water charged and deadly. Stay away from them, do not test to see if they are active. Contact your electrical company immediately if you see power lines down or wires in or near any water.
Returning Home
If you had to evacuate, return home when officials have stated the area is safe.
Before you enter your home, check the outside and your property. Look for down power lines and gas lines that may be damaged. If you smell gas or hear a hissing noise, contact the fire department immediately. Keep pets and children away from the water and any dangerous places.
Approach your property carefully and check for any entry way damage, roofs that may be falling down, cracks in walls, windows and any outside damages.
Inside your home may have chemicals such as cleaning supplies, gasoline from the garage, and other things commonly used in the home that are now scattered and need cleaning up. Wear gloves and protective clothing and rubber boots.
Check for snakes, some may be poisonous, and small animals on your property and inside your home, that may have come in with the flood.
Check your food and make sure to throw out anything you question. Throw away anything that has been affected by the flood waters. Do not use the waters for washing dishes or baths, ice cubes, or anything, remember this water is contaminated. Check with your local public health department for a boil water recommendation or for treatment of any water.
Take pictures right away of any damages as you are checking your property and home for insurance purposes. If you can send the pictures to your email or upload to a photo website where you can store them. If anything happens to your camera or phone that takes pictures, you have a backup.
Flood Insurance Tips
Homeowners Insurance does not cover flood damage. Flood Insurance is separate policy. Once there is a tropical storm or hurricane, in your area, there is a possibility of flooding. Without flood insurance you will pay out of pocket expenses for the damages, contact us today for more information.
Call us today to get your questions answered. 863-453-3903
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Budget Bi-Rite Insurance, Inc 