Your home, family and belongings are not immune to flood dangers. Every family should know what to do in the event of floods. Even those who don't live in areas with high risks for floods should consider how to prepare for flooding. Extra preparation, including insurance, might help.
Flood Zone Residents: Get Insurance
Floods can happen anywhere. However, some areas have much higher flood risks than others.
You can determine your home's flood risk by looking up its flood ratings. These ratings help homeowners and authorities measure the flood risks at specific locations.
The cost of flood damage can be significant. This is not something homeowners want to pay for out-of-pocket.
Here's the catch: standard homeowners insurance usually doesn't cover weather-related flooding. You might be out of luck if your home floods and you don't have the right insurance in place.
Look at your home's unique flood risk, and see if getting flood insurance coverage is a good idea. Even if flood insurance is not a requirement in your area, you should still consider its benefits. It can help homeowners rebuild and replace property damaged by floodwaters.
Protect Your Family: Put A Safety Plan In Place
Flooding might strike with or without warning. Therefore, it is best to plan for any eventuality. Families stand to lose a lot if they get caught unprepared when flooding arrives.
- Create an emergency kit containing necessities you might need in case of flooding. This might include:
- Copies of your flood insurance and homeowners policies
- Documentation of your family's medical records, including health insurance
- First-aid supplies, including prescription medications
- Non-perishable food stores, including plenty of water
- Batteries, generators or other power supplies
- Lifesaving equipment, such as life jackets, lifelines or rafts
- Instruct your family how to evacuate or move to higher ground in case of rising water. It might also help to practice swimming for worst-case scenarios.
- It's not safe to occupy a flooded property. If you evacuate your home, make sure you take all items necessary for your family's safety. These might include many of the items in your emergency kit. Never return home without receiving an all-clear signal.
Your family's safety remains paramount during times of flooding. Worry about your loved ones first, and then take care of your property. If you have flood insurance, you can often make sure you have protection for any damage.
If you have questions about flood insurance, contact Amco & Remco Insurance. Our friendly agents will be happy to help answer your questions.