Flood Safety is Accomplished Through Preparation.

6/10/2022 (Permalink)

Be Prepared, Not Scared!

Did you know that three out of four flood fatalities involved people in vehicles trying to cross flooded roads according to the Illinois Emergency Management Agency?

Here are some tips from IEMA on how you can stay safe during storm:

Before a Flood

• It is critical that someone at home monitors weather conditions, regardless of the time of day. 

• Make sure family members and friends know how to stay safe. Make a family emergency communications plan and include pets. Check on your neighbors to make sure they are safe and well-prepared.

• Maintain an emergency supply kit. This kit will help your family cope during extended power outages. 

• Keep all of your important records and documents in a safe deposit box or another safe place away from the premises.

• Insure your property and possessions. Make an inventory of your possessions using paper lists, photographs and/or videotapes of your belongings. Give a copy to your insurance company. Update your inventory and review your coverage with your insurance company periodically.

• Have check valves installed in building sewer traps to prevent flood waters from backing up in sewer drains. As a last resort, use large corks or stoppers to plug showers, tubs, or basins.

During a Flood

• Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Many people have lost their lives by attempting to drive over flooded roadways. The speed and depth of the water are not always obvious. There may be a hidden portion of the roadway washed out under the water. Two feet of water will carry away most automobiles.

After a Flood

• Use extreme care in areas of downed power lines or natural gas leaks.

• If driving, be alert for hazards on the roadways. 

If damages occur to your business or home, don't panic, call SERVPRO! We are here to walk you through the process of restoring your home and belongings, while you stay safe. 

Below is an attachment of the IEMA guide for Severe Weather Preparedness.

https://www2.illinois.gov/iema/Preparedness/Documents/severeweatherpreparedness.pdf 

References:

1. Illinois Emergency Management Agency, IEMA. (2021, February). Severe weather preparedness - illinois. Retrieved June 10, 2022, from https://www2.illinois.gov/iema/Preparedness/Documents/severeweatherpreparedness.pdf