By Katrina Cooper, MS, GSP, Health & Safety Technician

Inclement weather does not just mean frigid temperatures, snow, or sleet. The recent hurricanes that have impacted Florida, North Carolina, and areas in between are a stark reminder of what Mother Nature can do. Often, recovering from a hurricane or Nor’easter is mainly from the damage caused by floods and high winds. Where it can rain, it can flood. Just one inch of floodwater can cause $25,000 in damage!

DID YOU KNOW? Flooding is Pennsylvania’s most common natural disaster.

Be Prepared

» Get flood insurance. Most property insurance does not cover flood damage. Call your provider and visit floodsmart.gov for more information.

» Backflow preventers or check valves can help prevent floodwater from backing up and entering your home through drains or contaminating your potable water.

» Assemble and maintain an emergency supply kit and emergency plan, including mapping out alternative evacuation routes and where to meet if separated.

» Use waterproofing materials to seal basement walls or construct barriers to prevent floodwater from entering the building.

» Move as many belongings to higher levels and locations as possible, including hazardous materials, furniture, and valuables; bring outside items inside or tie them down.

When It Floods

» Be alert. Monitor your surroundings and be aware of any updates through NOAA weather radio, weather.gov, or local news outlets.

» Only evacuate if you think you are at risk or are advised to do so. Use one vehicle to help reduce traffic jams and avoid separation.

» Protect and secure your home. Shut off water and gas where they enter your home and electricity at the circuit breaker. Lock all windows and doors upon leaving the premises.

» “Turn around, don’t drown!” Floodwaters may hide additional dangers; roads can wash out, or debris may be stuck. Six inches of swiftly moving water can knock you off your feed and reach the bottom of most passenger cars. Two feet of the same water can sweep away most vehicles.

After Floodwaters Recede

» Only return when told it’s safe to do so. Visiting a disaster area may hinder urgent emergency response or rescue operations. Stay away from downed power lines; watch out for fallen trees, landslides, or debris; and only travel along recommended routes.

» Enter a building only once it has been inspected for safety. Wear sturdy shoes and only use battery-powered lighting. Be cautious of hazardous fumes, vapors, and materials.

» Air out and dry the home by keeping windows open. Photograph damage before cleaning.

» Report flood damage. Most counties have damage reporting tools available through their government websites. In addition to filing an insurance claim, file for disaster assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency, also known as FEMA.

» Get professional help. Local resources may include the American Red Cross, United Way, and volunteer organizations, such as the local chapter of Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster.

Additional Offerings

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