How to Create a Flood Emergency Plan

Storm Babet is causing huge levels of disruption throughout the UK, increasing the risk of flooding. Are you prepared?. Every year, millions of people worldwide are affected by floods as a result of Storm or burst riverbanks. Whether you live in a high-risk flood zone or not, it’s essential to have a flood emergency plan in place. In this blog post, we’ll outline the steps you must follow to ensure that you and your loved ones are prepared and safe when the waters rise.

Step 1: Know Your Risk

• Research if your area is prone to flooding
• Check the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood maps
• Consult with your local government for flood zone information

Step 2: Create a Communication Plan

• Establish a family meeting place that’s in a flood-safe area
• Designate an out-of-town contact everyone can reach
• Make sure all family members have a list of important contacts

Step 3: Prepare an Emergency Kit

• Include water, non-perishable food, first aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and essential documents
• Don’t forget about the needs of pets

Step 4: Protect Your Property

• Consider installing sump pumps and check valves
• Elevate electrical systems
• Seal your basement with water-resistant materials

Step 5: Establish an Evacuation Plan

• Map out multiple evacuation routes
• Plan where you will stay if you need to evacuate (e.g., family, friends, or a designated shelter)

Step 6: Stay Informed

• Sign up for weather alerts and warnings
• Know the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning

Step 7: Review and Practice Your Plan

• Regularly review your flood emergency plan with your family
• Conduct practice drills to ensure everyone knows what to do

Step 8: Get Flood Insurance

• Consult with your insurance agent about adding flood coverage
• Understand the terms and conditions of your policy
• Save the number of a registered Loss Assessor such as Oakleafe Claims in case of emergency and needing to make an Insurance Claim. They will manage your claim on your behalf enabling you to concentrate on getting your home and family life back on track.

Conclusion

This year we have seen Storm Agnes and Storm Babet tear through parts of the UK, creating a flood emergency plan is a critical step towards ensuring the safety of you and your loved ones. By knowing your risk, creating a communication strategy, preparing an emergency kit, protecting your property, establishing an evacuation route, staying informed, regularly reviewing your plan, and getting the right insurance, you are setting yourself up for the best possible outcome when floodwaters rise.

In the event of a Claim, Remember the name!