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Preparing for a Flood: The 2 Step Process

By Bobbie Sage, About.com

Step 1: Safeguarding Your Family and Personal Property

  • Keep and inventory of your personal property with lists, serial numbers, video tapes, and pictures
  • Keep insurance documents and other important papers in a safe place where flood water cannot destroy them
  • Make a safe and separate area that can be removed quickly for treasured items such as photos and heirlooms
  • Know how to shut off your home utilities if you need to leave your home
  • Be aware of any outdoor items that would need to be secured or brought inside so they would not float away
  • Keep warm blankets, water, food (canned with a can opener), and a first aid kit in your vehicle incase you need to leave
  • Stock up on clean drinking water since it can become contaminated during major flooding
  • Teach your family what to do in case of an emergency such as having a meeting place if you get separated
  • Step 2: Making Sure You Are Adequately Covered by Insurance

  • Check with your insurance company to see what flood or water damage coverage you currently have
  • Find out about what flood insurance is available for your area
  • When purchasing a flood insurance policy be aware of policy limits, coverages, and waiting periods
  • If you already have flood insurance take the time to understand how to file a claim
  • Learn more about flood insuance from the Official Site of the National Flood Insurance Porgram
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