Would You be Prepared for Severe Storm Flooding?

Are you concerned when severe storms are forecast?  In this part of the country, the full force of a hurricane or severe tornado is a rather remote possibility; but severe thunderstorms are a frequent threat, here in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania and surrounding areas. These storms We are not surprised when these storms produce flooding.  Has this happened to you or someone you know this spring or summer? With the stormy season in full swing, It is important to plan and prepare in advance for possible emergencies and perhaps even evacuation.

When severe storms occur in your area, protecting yourself and your family comes first. Then, if flooding threatens, as a homeowner you must protect your home. After all, it is probably your largest investment.  One important step is to be sure that you have the right insurance coverage well in advance.  You should know that flooding typically requires a Flood Insurance policy separate from your homeowners policy.  Remember: Waiting until the water starts to rise before seeking flood insurance means that your home will be unprotected because flood insurance requires a waiting period before it becomes effective.

In addition to securing your insurance protection, consider taking the following action before flooding strikes so that you avoid costly mistakes and protect your loved ones.

Gather Important Documents and Insurance Policies

Well in advance of any storm forecast, compile a home inventory with photos and detailed descriptions of your belongings. Record up-to-date contact information for your insurance agent and collect your insurance policies, financial records, medical records, records of major purchases such as vehicles, home, etc. Then, place your home inventory and your documents in a safe deposit box or store them where you can easily and quickly reach them in a fireproof, waterproof sealed container. Above all, DoFinally, let family members and/or those you trust knows where they are stored.  Periodically examine your inventory and documents to be sure that you have the most up-to-date versions. 

Prepare your Home for Flooding

Contact your state or local emergency planning agency to ask about the maximum projected flood level for your area. Then develop a plan to move valuable items, furniture and appliances above that level where possible, if and when flooding becomes an immediate issue.  Depending on the frequency and severity of the flooding threat in your area, you might also consider having your electrical outlets raised to a level above the projected flood level. 

In addition, put together your family's Survival Kit, including sufficient first aid supplies, drinking water and canned food to support all family members for the expected duration of the flood.   Your kit should also include a cell phone, radio, flashlight, blankets and if possible a supply of any prescription medications that your family requires. Once it is complete, it should be stored in a safe, dry, cool place. Once again, checking your kit regularly, replacing and replenishing as necessary assures that your family has the items needed to survive if flooding occurs.

Prepare Your Family For Possible Evacuation

Perhaps you have already created your family's emergency evacuation plan If not, you will want to do it and then practice it to be sure that all family members know what to do in the event of emergency requiring evacuation. Your plan should including designating safe evacuation routes to higher ground from your home as well as your workplaces and your children’s schools. Be sure to remember provisions for your pets in your plan. Ensure that everyone in the family knows the necessary emergency phone numbers and the contact information for a designated friend or relative located outside of your immediate area, one who has agreed to be your family contact in the event of disaster.

Get More Details:

Visit FloodSmart, an online resource for consumers provided by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for much more information, checklists, questions/answers, flood insurance details and much more.

Visit Know Your Stuff (a feature of the Insurance Information Institute) for everything you'll need to create your detailed home inventory.Here in Odenton, MD, at Patterson Insurance Management, Inc, our experienced agents know about flood insurance and we know your community whether you live in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, West Virginia or Washington, DC.  Discuss your flood insurance questions with us. We look forward to having you contact us at your convenience.