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How to Prepare for Flooding and Storm Damage
10/8/2018 (Permalink)
Did you know that weather changes are increasing the likelihood of floods? Yes, even in areas where excess water is usually considered to be unlikely. But as long as there is rain, there is a chance for flooding, too.
Technically speaking, a flood has occurred when two or more acres are wholly or partially subsumed with water.
But if a flood does happen, you won’t be spending your time worrying about the legal definition. You’ll be rightly worried about survival. Keep reading this blog for tips about flood preparation - and don’t worry, none of them include building an ark.
It’s impossible to know if power lines will survive during a flood, or if any of the usual electric resources will still be available. There are different variables that will influence the type of generator that you need.
Did you know: water conducts electricity. And of course, flooding means lots of excess water. If you know that flooding is impending, you should move all appliances to higher ground for safety.
You can check with local government or FEMA websites to become familiar with the level of flood risk in your area. The knowledge of when floods are more likely to happen and what is likely to cause them helps you be prepared. For the San Gabriel area, you can start here.
Another good way to stay aware of the risk is to purchase a weather radio and become familiar with how to use it properly.
Have you prepped an emergency preparedness kit? And is it prepared for a flood? The emergency kit should have extra water as flooding can contaminate water sources, and place important documents in a waterproof case, and always include extra food supplies. For help packing an emergency kit, read this.
Evacuation is a two-fold process. Begin by researching your local government’s official evacuation plan. After that, you should create an evacuation plan for your family that also includes emergency modes of communication. You should practice this evacuation plan until every person is familiar with the route.
Finally, once all of the floor waters have receded, you’ll want a plan in place for clean up. SERVPRO® of San Gabriel is always ready to help.