Prepping for Irene – Important FloodSmart Tips

Hurricane Preparation Information
With
Irene threatening a large portion of the coastal United States, people
will be looking to you as trusted authorities on what to do before,
during, and after the storm. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
has developed a number of resources that can help you communicate with
residents about preparing for and recovering from a hurricane.
During a Flood: Tips to stay safe during a flood.
After the Flood: Helpful information for residents as they return home.
Understanding Your Flood Insurance: Talking points to help you explain what flood insurance is, as well as what is and is not covered by a flood insurance policy.
Filing Your Flood Insurance Claim: A checklist for policyholders as they navigate the claims process.
NFIP Summary of Coverage: An explanation to help policyholders understand their flood insurance policy.
NFIP Flood Insurance Claims Handbook: A step-by-step guide to filing a claim.
FloodSmart.gov Hurricane Widget: A widget you can post on your Website with an interactive quiz allowing residents to test their hurricane knowledge.
Cost of Flooding Tool: A shareable digital resource that helps the public understand the likely costs of flooding.
FEMA’s
National Flood Insurance Program and the FloodSmart Campaign also offer
helpful tips on what to do to prepare before a flood. We encourage you
to share this information with residents of your community.
1. Safeguard your possessions.
Create
a personal flood file containing information about all your valuable
possessions and keep it in a secure place, such as a safe deposit box or
waterproof container. This file should include:
A copy of your insurance policies with your agents’ contact information.
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 jewelry and artwork
appraised. These documents are critically important when filing
insurance claims. For more information visit www.knowyourstuff.org.
Copies of all other critical documents, including finance records or receipts of major purchases.
2. Prepare your house.
Inspect
your sump pump. If you have a sump pump, make sure it’s 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.
Anchor fuel tanks.
Raise your electrical components (switches, sockets, circuit breakers, and wiring) at least 12 inches above your home’s projected flood elevation.
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.
3. Develop a family emergency plan.
Create a safety kit with drinking water, canned food, first aid, blankets, a radio, and a flashlight.
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
routes from home, work, and school that are on higher ground.
Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to be your emergency family contact.
Have a plan to protect your pets.
We also hope you are also taking this time to prepare your family and business from the potential impact of the storm.
Please email us at info@femafloodsmart.com with any questions about NFIP and FloodSmart.
Stay safe,
The FloodSmart Team

Visit the National Flood Insurance Program Web sites at
www.fema.gov/business/nfip, Agents.FloodSmart.gov and FloodSmart.gov.
FEMA 500 C Street SW, Washington, D.C. 20472.