Floods
A flood can result in property damage and utility loss, as well as forcing you out of your home. An evacuation kit should be kept on hand, as well as supplies for post-disaster cleanup, which can pose special risks after a flood. Floods often obstruct roads, so extra supplies should be stockpiled in the event that you are unable to travel.
Consider adding earthquake insurance to your home insurance policy, download the FEMA app, and download the American Red Cross App to let family know you’re safe and well.
Flood Stockpiles Should Include:
The Basics
Refer to the Basic Stockpile List, including all items for Evacuating and Sheltering-In-Place.
Take special note of the following items: Tools, important documents, cleanup tools and clothing, waterproof clothing, home inventory
N95 Respirators
N95 Respirators / What to know?
Use an N95 respirator for post-disaster cleanup. While plenty of face masks exist on the market, only N95 respirators provide medical-grade protection against infectious droplets and hazardous air particles. A proper N95 respirator will be National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) approved and FDA cleared for medical use. Non-FDA cleared masks are generally designed for industrial purposes that do not consider medical uses.
Note that:
• N95 means the respirator is capable of blocking out 95% of particulates in the air when properly worn.
• Despite the confusing name, a KN95 is not an N95 respirator. KN95s are unregulated and the majority provide inferior filtration.
• Avoid exhalation valves, which defeat the respirator’s ability to protect others from you.
• Pay close attention to authenticity given rampant counterfeits.
N95 Respirators / Where To Buy?
Water Alarm
Leaks and flooding often begin in the basement. Properly installed water alarms will alert you to the presence of rising water in time to mitigate damage.
Sump Pump
If flooding is a risk, a sump pump (installed in a pit in the basement) will automatically move water out of your home.
Barriers
Plywood can be used to board up doors and windows, while sandbags may provide protection against flooding and hurricane damage.
Metal angle flashing built into key areas around your home may prevent water damage and leaks.
