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What do you do when a severe storm is forecast? Although the full force of a hurricane or severe tornado is a remote possibility, severe thunderstorms are a frequent threat, here in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania and surrounding areas. These storms often produce flooding; and with the stormy season now upon us, we must take precautions.

When severe storms occur, you must protect yourself and your family first. But then, if flooding threatens, as a homeowner you must protect your home.  So it’s important that you have the right insurance coverage.  You should know that flooding is typically not covered by your homeowners policy.  Instead, you will need a separate flood insurance policy. Remember: Waiting until the water starts to rise before seeking flood insurance means that your largest investment – your home – will not be protected. Flood insurance requires a waiting period before it becomes active. 

Consider the following steps to take before flooding strikes so that you avoid costly mistakes and protect your loved ones.

Gather Insurance Policies and Important Documents

Create a home inventory with photos and detailed descriptions of your belongings. Gather your insurance policies and contact information for your insurance agent, financial records, medical records, records of major purchases such as vehicles, home, etc. Then, put your documents and inventories in a safe deposit box or store them at home in a fireproof, waterproof sealed container. Above all, be sure that everyone knows where they are stored.

Prepare your Home for Flooding

Check with your state or local emergency planning agency to determine the maximum projected flood level for your area. Then, create a plan to move valuable items, furniture and appliances above that level if possible.  Depending on the severity of the flooding threat, you might also consider raising your electrical outlets to a level above the projected flood level. 

You will need a Survival Kit with sufficient first aid supplies, drinking water and canned food to support your family for the expected duration of the flood.   Your kit should include blankets, an extra cell phone, a radio, a flashlight and if possible a supply of any prescription medications that your family requires; and it should be stored in a safe, dry, cool place and be checked regularly, replacing and replenishing as necessary.

Prepare Your Family For Possible Evacuation

If you have not already done so, create an emergency evacuation plan and practice it, including designating safe evacuation routes to higher ground from your home as well as children’s schools and your workplaces. Don’t overlook provisions for your pets in your plan. Be sure everyone knows emergency phone numbers and the contact information for a designated friend or relative who lives out of the area and who agrees to be your family contact in the event of disaster. 

Get More Details:

• Visit FloodSmart, an online resource for consumers provided by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for much more information, checklists, questions/answers, flood insurance details and much more. 
• Visit Know Your Stuff (a feature of the Insurance Information Institute) for everything you'll need to create your detailed home inventory.

Here in Gaithersburg, MD, at the Boizelle Insurance Partnership, our experienced agents know about flood insurance and we know your community whether you live in Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, West Virginia or Washington, DC.  Discuss your flood insurance questions with us. We look forward to having you contact us at your convenience.