Flash Flood Preparation and Safety Tips
25jun 2021
ServiceMaster by Reed prepared safety tips and preparation during flash floods. Call us for predisaster preparation and water damage restoration.
Floods are the most common natural disaster to cause damage to homes and other buildings. A flash flood, a common severe weather emergency situation, is dangerous and can cause significant damage to anything in its path. Flash floods can move large boulders, rip out trees, destroy bridges and cause rapid flooding in low-lying areas. If your home is near a river, pond or other source of water, it could be susceptible to a flash flood. The experts at ServiceMaster by Reed of Dania Beach, FL want to help you learn how to prepare for a flash flood and what to do when a flash flood happens.
Preparing for a Flash Flood
Flash Flood Preparation and Safety Tips
Knowing if your home is in a flood zone or flood hazard area. Check the Flood Insurance Rate Map or FIRM from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to see if you're living in an area prone to flash floods or other types of flooding.
When severe weather threatens or hits, pay close attention to the weather watches and warnings for your area. A Flash Flood Watch means the conditions are ripe for a flash flood to occur, while a Flash Flood Warning means that flooding is imminent or already occurring in areas that are considered a flood hazard.
Prepare a flood disaster plan for your family and know your area's flood evacuation routes. If the authorities issue an evacuation, follow the recommended evacuation plan. Prepare your home for a flash flood by:
Knowing if your home is in a flood zone or flood hazard area. Check the Flood Insurance Rate Map or FIRM from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to see if you're living in an area prone to flash floods or other types of flooding.
When severe weather threatens or hits, pay close attention to the weather watches and warnings for your area. A Flash Flood Watch means the conditions are ripe for a flash flood to occur, while a Flash Flood Warning means that flooding is imminent or already occurring in areas that are considered a flood hazard.
Prepare a flood disaster plan for your family and know your area's flood evacuation routes. If the authorities issue an evacuation, follow the recommended evacuation plan. Prepare your home for a flash flood by:
- Bringing indoors or securing all outdoor furniture
- Moving important items out the lowest areas of the home to avoid water damage
- Unplugging electrical appliances
- If authorities recommend, turning off the home's main electricity and gas
- Having a flood emergency kit ready
Prepare flood emergency kit. It should include a First Aid kit, weather emergency radio, any medications family members or pets may need, bottled water, non-perishable food, flashlight, batteries, multi-purpose tool, duct tape, and important papers including a phone list with numbers for your insurance agent, and family members. A water-proof tote is a perfect container for a flood emergency kit. For additional info, the Red Cross provides a complete list of emergency kit items.
What to do in a Flash Flood
- Never walk or drive through floodwaters. Six inches of water can knock a person down and only two feet of water can sweep away any vehicle during a flash flood.
- Remember that even shallow flood waters can pose a danger. Flood waters can contain debris and harmful contaminants that lead to injury and serious health risks.
- Never let children play in a flooded area for any reason.
- Head for higher ground, which is generally safer.
- Avoid the basement and head to the upper level.
- Keep your flood emergency kit close at hand as well as a weather-emergency radio and a cell phone.
What to do After Flash Flood
After the floodwaters recede and you're able to return home, let the experts at ServiceMaster by Reed. We will be there for you to help access any damage caused by the flood waters.
With rapid response flood damage repair from ServiceMaster by Reed’s Flood Damage Restoration team, floors, walls, and personal property can often be restored to like-new condition from flood damage. Whether you are calling for advice on the flood damage repair process, general questions about flood damage repairs in South Florida, or services, our staff will give you the personal attention you deserve. The flood damage repair services we offer in South Florida are the best around. Call us at 954-799-4420 or contact us online today.
Related items:
7/23/2021
Lightning Safety Tips in Dania Beach, Florida
ServiceMaster by Reed has compiled a list of lightning safety tips to keep you safe and protected during a thunderstorm. Read more.
9/28/2021
Get Your Business Back Up and Running After Hurricane Damage in Florida
Learn how to get your business back up and running after a hurricane. Call ServiceMaster by Reed at (954) 799-4420 for flood damage restoration in Miami, FL.
9/28/2021
Can Your Small Business Survive a Natural Disaster?
Learn how a small business disaster recovery plan can help you succeed after a disaster. Call ServiceMaster at (954) 799-4420 for Dania Beach, FL reconstruction services.
6/25/2021
How to Handle the Flood Insurance Claims Process
Learn about tips to handle the flood insurance claim process. Contact ServiceMaster by Reed for Miami, FL flood damage restoration at 954-799-4420.
7/23/2021
After a Flood: Limit Mold in Your Business in 4 Easy Steps
Mold growth is a serious problem for commercial businesses. Learn how to limit mold growth in your business after a flood incident.
