Flood Safety in South Florida
Almost anywhere it rains, it can flood, especially in South Florida. Even if you live in an area of that you think isn’t at risk, preparation is just as critical as with other types of emergencies.
Before we get into how you can prevent, limit or react to flooding, it’s important to note that flood damage is typically not covered by your homeowners or renters insurance. There are specialized flood insurance programs that we at Burke, Bogart & Brownell can discuss with you. Please contact us at 561-392-8888 or visit our website at bbbins.com for more information.
Preparing for a Flood in South Florida
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends several steps to stay safe during emergencies and limit damage from flooding. You should:
- Build an emergency kit for your family containing such items as drinking water and nonperishable food for each member of your family (two-week supply), flashlights, a radio, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, necessary medications, personal hygiene items and copies of important documents.
- Create a communication plan so family members can reach one another.
- Elevate your furnace, water heater, and electric panel in your home if you live in an area with a high flood risk.
- Consider installing “check valves” to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home.
- If possible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering your home and seal basement walls with waterproofing compounds.
Acting During a Flood
If a flood is likely in your area, quick action may be necessary to protect your family and property. You should:
- Follow your local news to keep up with weather updates and emergency alerts.
- Move immediately to the upper floor of a building if there is any possibility of a flash flood. Do not wait for instructions to move.
- If you need to evacuate, secure your home, and move essential items to an upper floor. Turn off utilities if instructed to do so and disconnect electrical appliances. However, do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
- Do not walk through moving water. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
- Do not drive into flooded areas. If you are caught in your vehicle in floodwater, abandon your car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
- If you have evacuated your home, do not return until authorities tell you it is safe.
Coping After a Flood
Flooding can cause emotional stress along with physical hazards, so be mindful of the well-being of you and your family during the aftermath.
- Floodwater can be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or sewage, so avoid contact as much as possible.
- Make sure your city’s water supply is safe to drink.
- Clean and disinfect everything that was in contact with floodwater.
- The Red Cross has a free book available called “Repairing Your Flooded Home,” which contains useful information as you clean up. It’s available at redcross.org. Of course, don’t hesitate to contact us as well — we’re ready to help!
- If you have flood insurance, contact the claims center of your provider as soon as possible.
Flooding is one of the most common hazards in the U.S. Being prepared for any emergency is crucial for the safety of you and your family. If you do not have flood insurance, contact us at Burke, Bogart & Brownell. We would be happy to discuss options to keep you, your family, and your home protected.
