Disaster Tips - Survival kit & Floods

When preparing for a disaster, be sure to make a survival kit that includes:

• Canned or other non-perishable food
• Non-electric can opener
• First aid kit and manual
• Portable radio and/or television
• Flashlights
• Extra batteries
• Water in non-breakable containers
• Prescription medicines as needed
• Extra clothing and blankets
• Emergency cash and credit cards
• A copy of your insurance policy

Incase of a flood you want to do the following:

Flood

Before

• Learn the flood warning signs and alert signals of your community.
• Collect emergency building materials if you live in a frequently flooded area: plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber, nails, shovels and sandbags.
• Prepare a survival kit.
• Plan and practice an evacuation route. Establish a meeting place should your family get separated.
• Review how to shut off utilities in an emergency with all family members.
• Check your insurance policy. Ask your agent at C&E Insurance about flood insurance. Homeowners policies do not usually cover flood damage.

During

• Listen to a battery operated radio or television for the latest storm information. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Move to high ground, avoid rising waters and do not walk or drive through any floodwaters.
• Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires.

After

• Listen to the radio and do not return home until authorities indicate it is safe to do so.
• Be watchful of snakes that may have found their way into your home.
• Throw away all food that has come in contact with floodwaters.
• If your basement has flooded, pump out the water gradually. Remove about 1/3 per day to avoid structural damage.
• Promptly report the loss to your insurance company.