Floods can happen unexpectedly. Even if you don't live near a river, one big storm can make all the difference. The Federal Emergency Management Agency says that floods can happen in any place.
Floods happen when it rains, snow melts, or a dam breaks and releases more water than the land can easily soak up. The CPCU Society suggests the following ways to protect your family and belongings from flooding:
Keep a current inventory of your home and other important papers in a safe place. Take these things with you if you have to leave your home. Also, keep exact copies somewhere else, like a safe deposit box at the bank.
During floods, utilities may not work as they should. Stock up on food that doesn't go bad and doesn't need much or any cooking. Buy water in bottles or get jugs ready to fill with water.
Check radios and flashlights that you can take with you. Make sure you have plenty of new batteries.
Keep the gas tank of your car full. Also, make sure your home's oil and gas tanks are always full. This will keep them from coming loose and damaging the foundation if they do.
When authorities tell you to evacuate, you should leave right away. Delay can keep you from getting out of a bad situation. Because flooding changes the look of places and landmarks, it's easy to get lost.
Do not walk or drive through water that is moving. Six inches of fast-moving water is enough to knock an adult over.
"Watch out for downed power lines and gas leaks." Water can carry electricity, so report any downed wires as soon as you can. Before you use any electrical or heating/cooling equipment, you should have a trained professional check it out. If the equipment was in water or near water, the damage might not be obvious.
Get in touch with your insurance agent as soon as you can. Take pictures of the damage. Keep proof of damage and loss for the adjuster who will handle your claim.
Flood damage is not covered by standard homeowner's insurance, but it is covered by special flood insurance. Losses that are covered by flood insurance are paid out quickly. Loans and grants from the government might take a while and not cover what was lost. Your insurance agent can tell you about coverage or give you a quote with no obligation.
