Protect Your Home from Potential Flood Damage

Northern Californians are being treated to an actual winter this year, with El Nino bringing a steady stream of storms and boosting water levels in regional lakes and reservoirs.

An extreme excess of rain, however, can create unsafe conditions around the home and on the roadways. While spring may be in sight, there’s still time and reason to be prepared for floods. Below are a few tips to avoid flood and water damage in the coming weeks.

• Do not drive or walk through floodwaters.
• Flood insurance is not standard in homeowner policies. Be aware of what’s covered beforehand.
• Be aware of your neighborhood’s flood risk and possible evacuation routes.
• Store or secure outdoor furniture.
• Disconnect electrical appliances.
• Be prepared to turn off gas and electricity (never do this in standing water).
• Have battery-operated radios on hand.
• Monitor local situations and evacuations from dependable news and government agencies.
• Monitor rising stream levels.
• Install backflow valves to prevent water from entering through drains and toilets.
• Have an evacuation plan for your household.
• Have a three-to-five day supply of non-perishable food, water, and medications.
• Don’t forget to plan for pets.
• Have extra chargers on hand and memorize pertinent phone numbers.
• Carry an emergency kit in your car with flares, tools, and first aid items.