At the end of every spring season, we might forget about the previous summer rains and subsequent flooding that might have occurred in the area. Here in Florida, hurricane season starts June 1 and ends November 1, and we need to be prepared.
But when unrelenting rain starts to fall, one thing you don’t want to experience is regret in not being prepared, whether it is from leaks related to your roofing, windows, or the possibility of a flooded house.
While those might seem like minor issues, when they happen to you, they quickly move up to disastrous. Making sure your home is safe, secure, and devices like your sump pump (if you have a basement) are in good condition.
But when heavy rains hit your area, and flooding is a possibility, the website https://www.ready.gov has some great advice for your preparedness plan.
Make a plan
This is important to do in advance, as when an emergency strikes you will be in panic mode. Have a discussion with family members, about what you will do, where you will go, where you might meet up if separated and mobile phones are not working. If you are in a low lying area, have an evacuation plan. Know in advance where you are going to go if your area is evacuated, and make sure you have arrangements for your pets too.
Human life is invaluable, and we feel the same way about our pets.
Have a written list of important phone numbers in case your cell phone loses charge or isn’t functioning.
Create a home inventory.
Build a ‘go-kit’
Have the necessities in a backpack or other easy-to-grab bag. Necessities include documents, such as birth certificates, passports, legal documents, and other papers you should not lose. Put in a copy of bank statements and credit card statements so you have this information handy if you need it. Having some cash is important in the event credit cards can’t be used. Make sure you fill up the gas tank on your vehicle in advance of the storms.
Clothing, medications, and other necessities should also be in your ‘go-kit’ supplies. If you are evacuated, or you plan to ride out the storm at home, you need 5 – 7 days worth of non-perishable food items per person and pet. Plus 1 gallon of drinking water per person/pet per day.
Basically, think about what you simply can’t go without for several days if you have to be out of your home.
Check your insurance policy
Now is the time to make sure you have coverage for natural disasters that might strike your home. Don’t assume. Ask your insurance agent and make sure you have it spelled out clearly in your policy. Not all natural events are covered by regular homeowner policies. Flood insurance is a separate policy as flooding is not covered by your regular homeowner’s policy.
But if the unthinkable does happen to your home, do the right thing and get it all fixed quickly. And safely. Doing the clean up yourself can expose you to future potential hazards. Call your favorite Tampa restoration company, Accent American Inc. After all, it pays to call a pro!813-621-6015
