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Flood safety tips and resources for individuals

Flooding occurs when water temporarily overflows onto normally dry land. Numerous factors, including, heavy rain, snow, coastal storms, storm surges, overflowing rivers and dam failures can cause the rise in water. Widespread flooding can lead to property damage, power outages and potential hazards. 

Here are some tips to help you prepare for elevated water levels and keep your family and property safe.
 

Prepare today

1. Create a family communications plan. Develop a family contact sheet with names, addresses and phone numbers of important contacts including doctors, schools and out-of-state family members. Keep an online backup available.
2. Make a home inventory. Insurance claims are typically processed faster when an inventory is available.
3. Stay alert and sign up for weather notifications.
4. Determine if you are in a flood zone and if areas close to you are prone to flooding.
5. Map out roadways that are at risk of flooding and learn alternate routes.
6. Purchase a weather radio with local discrimination capability.
7. Stay alert by signing up and paying attention to weather alerts.
8. Talk to your independent agent about potentially purchasing a separate flood insurance policy.
    

If a flood is coming

1. Move items inside (bikes, furniture) as they may move during a flood and cause damage.
2. Charge your phone and electronic devices.
3. Park your car in the garage.
4. If you have a sump pump, ensure that it is working. Secure a battery backup if possible.
5. Remove items from the floor and bring them to higher floors if possible, to help protect against water damage.

During the flood

1. Get to higher ground if your location is subject to flooding.
2. Listen to weather updates and have a battery-operated radio handy in the event of a power outage.
3. Avoid floodwaters as it is not safe to drive or walk through them.
4. Disconnect utilities and electric appliances.
5. If instructed to do so, turn off your electricity and natural gas (as long as you are able to do it in a safe manner and while not standing in water).
6. Follow evacuation orders and watch for warning signs.

After the flood

1. Tune into weather updates for news on impacted areas and safety concerns.
2. Avoid disaster areas and floodwaters.
3. Wait for confirmation that it is safe to return to areas impacted by flooding.
4. If your property has been impacted by flooding:
   • Clean up pools of water
   • Dry damp areas to prevent mold and mildew.
   • Move damp items outdoors when safe to prevent mold growth.
   • Move items away from damp areas.

View heavy rain safety tips

Be sure to notify our claims team immediately if there is damage and protect the property while mitigating any future risk.
 

Weather resource center

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