3 Steps to Follow After a Flood

Floods are the most common natural disaster that people throughout the nation experience. According to FEMA's Climate Change Report, the country's Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) will exponentially grow in different environments. The SFHAs are expected to increase by 45% in riverine areas and 55% in coastal settings.

But what does this data mean to you?
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It means that floods are evident in the future, and preparing for them is everyone's top priority. Government agencies provide various tips on how to flood-proof homes and establishments through their websites. Additionally, you also need to have a game plan post-flood. Continue reading and check out the steps you need to do after a flood:

1. Prioritize Your Safety
   Most times, floods can force people out of their homes due to their severity. People should always remember to wear protective gear like rubber boots when returning to their homes. These items will protect them from electrocution and harmful chemicals in the floodwater.
   
   Moreover, dispose of any food that has encountered the floodwater to avoid food poisoning. Floodwater may contain dirt, bacteria, and chemicals like spilled all-purpose cleaners.
   
   
2. Remove Flood Water
   Depending on the depth of the water inside your home, there are several ways to remove it. Homeowners can do it the old-fashioned way by scooping up the water with a bucket. Another way is to drain it with hoses, which is way faster. When the level has receded, you can use a water vacuum to suck up the remaining water.
   
   
3. Dry and Clean Up Your House
   The use of portable fans and air conditioning in this step can fasten the drying process. Also, in closed-off rooms, you can use dehumidifiers to remove unwanted moisture.
   
   When the drying process is over, homeowners can now see the damage the flood has done to their house. Check for anything that needs repair and dispose of anything that is severely damaged by the flood.

Conclusion
It's not always easy to bounce back from any disasters, especially if it took a number on your home. However, doing those steps can be the start of your new life. This course of action will also ensure your family's safety and your home's integrity. Ignoring them will result in grave and costly damages in the future.

For added protection, obtaining flood insurance is an ideal precautionary step. This type of insurance caters explicitly to damages dealt by floods.

At Family Auto Insurance Agency, we put our clients first by offering them policies that they can afford. Having insurance is a necessity nowadays and we're here to help you out. Learn more about our products and services by calling our agency at (313) 285-9042. You can also request a free quote by CLICKING HERE.