Purchasing flood insurance is just the first step to protecting your home before a hurricane strikes. You can do several other things to minimize losses in your home and ensure your family’s safety during the Houston flooding.
- Safeguard your possessions
Sometimes we know how to get the family out of the house, but what about other important things like important documentation that proves your house is yours? Create a personal flood file containing information about all your possessions and keep it in a secure place, such as a safe deposit box or waterproof container. This file should have:
- A copy of your insurance policies with your agent’s contact information.
- Conduct a household inventory: For insurance purposes, be sure to keep a written and visual (i.e., videotaped or photographed) record of all major household items and valuables, even those stored in basements, attics, or garages. Create files that include serial numbers and store receipts for major appliances and electronics. Have your jewelry and artwork appraised; these documents are very important when filing insurance claims.
- Copies of all other critical documents, including finance records or receipts of major purchases.
- Prepare Your House
- First, make sure your sump pump is working, and then install a battery-operated backup in case of a power failure. Installing a water alarm will also let you know if water is accumulating in your basement.
- Clear debris from gutters and downspouts so that the rain has somewhere to go.
- Anchor any fuel tanks to avoid an explosion or fire.
- Raise your electrical components (switches, sockets, circuit breakers, and wiring) at least 12 inches above your home’s projected flood elevation. This should be carried out by qualified maintenance staff or professional contractors licensed to work in your state, county, or city.
- Place the furnace, water heater, washer, and dryer on cement blocks at least 12 inches above the projected flood elevation.
- Move furniture, valuables, and important documents to a safe place.
- Develop a Family Emergency Plan
- Create a safety kit with drinking water, canned food, first aid, blankets, a radio, a flashlight, and extra batteries.
- Post emergency telephone numbers by the phone and teach your children how to dial 911.
- Plan and practice a flood evacuation route with your family. Know safe home, work, and school routes on higher ground. Your family must be prepared and move as quickly as a flash flood.
- Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to be your emergency family contact.
- Don’t forget your pets! Have a plan to protect your fluffy/scaly/feathery family members as well. In advance, you must decide whether or not to have them travel with you or stay in a shelter.
For more information on flood insurance and how to protect your home from rising water, call Texan Insurance.