Don’t be caught unaware when flooding occurs
Flooding is one of the most common and devastating natural disasters, with the potential to affect people, families and communities across Wisconsin. Ready-Wisconsin is urging everyone to take steps to understand the risks flooding can bring.
To encourage everyone in the state to be prepared, Feb. 24-28, is Flood Safety Awareness Week in Wisconsin.
“Flooding can happen without warning, whether it’s caused by heavy rain or snow-melt,” said Greg Engle, Wisconsin Emergency Management administrator. “As extreme weather events become more frequent and unpredictable, it is important for Wisconsinites to be aware of flooding risks, and take steps to protect themselves and their property.”
Home and property owners can assess the potential for flooding on their property if they live in a flood plain, near a body of water or have a basement. The Federal Emergency Management Agency has a Flood Map Service Center, to find official flood maps and access other tools to understand flood risk.
While some areas are more susceptible to flooding, every part of the state has a potential risk. In fact, roughly 25 percent of all national flood insurance claims come from properties outside designated flood plains, according to the National Flood Insurance Program.
Since waters can’t always be stopped from rising, the following tips can reduce the devastating effects of flooding:
• Be aware of weather forecast information, whether its heavy rain or a warm-up that causes snow melt. Have more than one way to receive weather warnings. Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts on cell phones, to be alerted of imminent threats in the area.
• Create an emergency plan, so loved ones know what to do and where to go, in case there is a flood. Practice the plan and make sure everyone knows what to do when a flood warning is issued. Make a list of emergency numbers and important contacts.
• Most homeowner, rental and business insurance policies generally do not cover flooding. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Most flood coverage requires 30 days to take effect.
• Keep water out of, and away from, the house. Clean gutters regularly, direct downspouts away from the foundation, repair cracks in the foundation, improve grading so water flows away from the house and cover window wells.
• Move valuables out of the basement. Elevate or flood-proof the washer, dryer, water heater and HVAC systems, and relocate electrical outlets to three feet above the floor.
During and after a flood, never drive or walk through flooded areas. Turn around, don’t drown! It takes 12 inches of water to carry away a small car. Be especially careful while driving at night.
It is important to also not walk through floodwater. Just six inches of fast-moving water can sweep adults off their feet. Floodwater may also be contaminated by sewage or chemicals, and can hide downed power lines or debris that may cause injuries.
If a home floods, follow cleaning and disinfection guidelines, to avoid mold growth. If the power goes out for more than four hours, throw out refrigerated food or any food that came into contact with floodwater.
If drinking water well is flooded, disinfect the well and test the water to make sure it’s safe, before drinking it. When using a generator, keep it outside at least 20 feet from the home, to avoid illness or death from carbon monoxide, which can occur in enclosed spaces.
