How to Prepare For a Flood
A flood can be a simple annoyance to a full-blown catastrophe. Not only can rising waters damage your property, but they can also threaten and endanger lives. Floods are easy to prepare for, as long as you follow these simple hints and tips.
Watch Weather Reports
A reliable weather report may be all that stands between safety and catastrophe. If the weather outside looks bad enough to possibly cause a flood, stay tuned to weather reports and updates on TV, radio, or on the Internet. If the storm or hurricane is too close to your home, follow the advice given by the weather specialist broadcasting the report.
Clear Drainage
floodMany floods are often caused by inadequate drainage. Ditches may be filled with leaves and debris, or storm drains may be clogged with garbage. If the drainage system around your home is not built to prevent or withstand flooding, you’ll end up with a serious or even life-threatening problem.
Before hurricane or storm season hits, take the time to prepare your drainage systems:
Clear debris from drains. Sweep and clear out mud, sticks, or leaves that have clogged your drains. Flush out the clogged drains, canals, and curbs with a high-powered garden hose.
Dig ditches. While a ditch may cause more harm than good when dug improperly, and when they are dug at the wrong place. Dig ditches only when your drainage systems are insufficient, and if you’re absolutely sure that the ditch will not cause erosion.
Seal and Strengthen Your Home
Leaks and weak structures can be ruined or destroyed by rising water. On dry days, take the time to reinforce your home with weatherstrips, and check wooden posts and beams for any signs of rotting or damage. You may also need to seal leaks with rubber sealant or rubber cement, and reinforce parts of your home with concrete. Check the condition of your storm doors and storm windows to prevent damage from wind and strong rain.
Stock Up On Supplies
Serious floods can cause stores and shopping centers to close. Way before hurricane season, start stocking up on food, medicine, clothes, and other important supplies. Make sure you have a good stock of canned food, potable water, and waterproof clothing. You should also have a stock of first-aid supplies and over-the-counter medication for diseases like cold, diarrhea, and high fever.
Head for Higher Ground
If you live near a body of water, or if you live in a flood-prone area, the best thing to do before a flood is to head for a place with a higher elevation. Avoid areas that are prone to erosion; look for high places that have stable ground, and are far and away from flash floods and other weather damage. Once you’ve found shelter in higher ground, stay there until the flood completely subsides.
With just the right weather conditions, small puddles can turn into catastrophic floods. Preparing for floods way before hurricane or storm seasons can assure your safety and well-being no matter how bad the flood turns out to be.