Warmer weather increases the risk of flooding. (Photo courtesy of FEMA)

Snow melt, heavy rains and rising waters increase the risk of flooding as the seasons change. “It is important we prepare now for the impact floods could have on our homes, our businesses and in our communities,” said Andrew Velasquez, FEMA Region V administrator.

Take action with these simple steps to protect what matters before a flood threatens your community:

Your Home

• Ensure you’re insured. Consider purchasing flood insurance to protect your home against the damage floodwaters can cause. Homeowners’ insurance policies do not typically cover flood losses, and most policies take 30 days to become effective.
• Keep important papers in a safe place. Make copies of critical documents like mortgage papers, deeds, passports and bank statements. Keep copies in your home and store originals in a secure place outside the home, such as a bank safe deposit box.
• Elevate mechanicals off the floor of your basement. Avoid potential water damage by raising your water heater, washer, dryer and furnace.
• Caulk exterior openings. Keep water from getting inside your home by caulking around the spaces where electrical wires and cables enter.
• Shovel. As temperatures warm, snow melt is a real concern. Shovel snow away from your home and clean your gutters to keep your home free from potential water damage.

Your Family

• Build and maintain an emergency supply kit. Include drinking water, a first-aid kit, canned food, a radio, flashlight and blankets.
• Plan for your pet needs. Ensure you have pet food, bottled water, medications, cat litter, newspaper, a secure pet carrier and leash included in your emergency supply kit.
• Have a family emergency plan in place. Your family may not be together when a disaster strikes so it is important to plan in advance what you will do in different situations.

To learn more about preparing for floods, how to purchase a flood insurance policy and the benefits of protecting your home or property investment against flooding visit FloodSmart.gov or call 1-800-427-2419.