Are you prepared for a Flood?

Flooding can occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall, a dam or levee failure, or a sudden release of water held by an ice jam. If your home and family are at risk of flooding, use this checklist to help prepare for such a disaster:

• Do you know the evacuation routes in your area?
• Are roofs, gutters and down spouts clear?
• Have you checked trap valves to prevent flood water backing up in your drains?
• Can you secure outdoor furniture and other items that can float away or get in the way of emergency personnel?
• Do you have flood-fighting tools such as sandbags and pails ready?
• Do you have a sump pump?
• Is there a back up power supply?
• Does your family know "What to do in case of a flood"?

Steps To Follow After A Flood

• Inspect home carefully before re-entering.
• Do not use gas or electrical utilities until they have been checked.
• Do what you can to make temporary repairs and avoid further damage.
• Air house thoroughly to remove foul odors or escaped gas.
• Pump or bail out flooded areas and give walls and floors an opportunity to dry.
• Scrub all woodwork and floors with a stiff brush to clean off mud and dirt.
• Raise wall-to-wall carpets to allow air to circulate.
• Dry metal objects, including electric motors in home appliances, carefully and rub with oil to prevent corrosion.
• Review your insurance coverage and notify your insurance agent promptly.
• Take photos or make a videotape of damaged property and keep a record of expenses.
• Review your family disaster plan and see how you can improve disaster planning in your community.

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