I am sure everyone in the country has heard or seen the devastation this week caused by Hurricane Irene. What started as a tropical storm, swept through Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, and the Carolinas leaving a wave of devastation in its wake. While some people were given advanced notice to vacate, others were only given short notice to hunker down. At either rate, many were not prepared for the immense flooding that wiped out whole towns. If you’re ever concerned about flooding or hurricane-proofing your home, here are a few flood essentials every homeowner needs.
1. Emergency Preparedness Kits
An emergency preparedness kit is your first line of defense in a flood situation. While it may not be specific to the flood waters, it will be your first line of defense for administering first aid if needed. The kit should contain bandages, medicines, sterile gloves, and other first-aid essentials. You can make one unique to you, or purchase a ready-made kit online.
2. Waterproofing Materials
Most towns and states are notified in advance of tropical storms approaching. That also includes notices to evacuate or expect flooding. Other people live in homes that are frequently flooded. Purchasing waterproofing materials can go a long way in preserving the contents of your home in all these situations. Some essential waterproofing materials you should secure if you live in a flood zone include laminate flooring, flood vents, flood shields, and sealants.
3. Sump Pumps and Backup Power Systems
When facing a flood and flood damage, prepare for the aftermath. In many cases, the storm that comes along with the flooding is going to knock out power. Having a generator will help keep the lights on and your food cold in the fridge. A sump pump is also going to help in removing some water from the home if feasible.
4. Flood Insurance
Flood insurance is a must if your area is prone to flooding. Such insurance is going to take care of the damage caused by the storm waters. That includes covering water and debris removal, replacement of your belongings, and building coverage. It will take care of fixing electrical and foundation problems, but not wind and hail damage. It could be your saving grace especially if your home is a total loss.
5. Important Documents and Valuables
Please keep up with your important information. These documents may be urgently needed, and losing them during a catastrophic event would be highly inconvenient. Recovering them or your valuables might be challenging in such circumstances. Be sure to store them in a readily accessible and secure location.
6. Evacuation Plans and Safety Protocols
Much like a plan to evacuate for a house fire, you should have one prepared in case of flooding as well. Make a plan and do random drills to make sure everyone in your home is thoroughly familiar with the plan. Be sure to include where the group should meet if they get separated, an evacuation location, important numbers to call, transportation methods, and other relevant information.
7. Flood Alerts and Weather Monitoring
Ahead of the storm make sure to monitor the local weather center coverage for your area. Along with the news stations, the weather channel will have the latest information on weather impacting your area. You can also set up alerts with the National Weather Service. Those alerts get sent directly to your phone and can keep you apprised of rising flood concerns and other weather emergencies.
Hurricane Helene made landfall a few days ago and caused devastating flooding. It was not the first of its kind, but it left behind a wake of destruction in its path. For those in flood zones and, those concerned about flooding, make sure you you secure these flood essentials.