Be proactive and protect your property!  Useful tips provided by FEMA https://www.floodsmart.gov/flood/first-prepare-for-flooding to help keep your property safe include the following:

 

• Take photos and videos to conduct a household inventory, and keep a record of all major household items and valuables. These documents are critically important when filing insurance claims.

• Reduce the risk of damage from flooding by elevating critical utilities, such as electrical panels, switches, sockets, wiring, appliances and heating systems.

• In areas with repetitive flooding, consider elevating the entire structure.

• Make sure basements are waterproofed and your sump pump is working. Then, install a battery-operated backup in case of power failure.

• Installing a water alarm will also let you know if water is accumulating in your basement.

• Clear debris from gutters and downspouts.

• Anchor any fuel tanks.

• Move furniture, valuables and important documents to a safe place.

• Store copies of irreplaceable documents (such as birth certificates, passports, etc.) in a safe, dry place. Keep originals in a safe deposit box.

 

 

Don’t forget to stock up on any needed supplies, including sandbags, plywood, lumber and plastic sheeting in case of a serious flooding threat. And it goes without saying-but we’ll say it again-make sure you have flood insurance ahead of time and that the coverage amounts are adequate for your dwelling and contents.