Flood Preparedness

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Flood Planning

It is important for the people in our area to realize that we may not live near a river, but we do experience flooding in other ways. Overland flooding is our most common flooding. It creates flash flood situations on rural roads in the county. Another concern is soft spots in the road systems due to frost, moisture, and heavy traffic. When traveling in the rural areas please be aware of your driving conditions. Do no travel through water that is over the road surface. Find alternate routes, due to running water, the road may be experiencing wash outs and erosion. Reduce your travel speed and travel on these roads only if necessary. Safety is the #1 factor!

Educate Yourself

Become educated about your insurance coverage. There is a difference in coverage regarding -Surface water flooding, ground seepage (ground water) and sewer backup. Know what your policy will and won't cover-what you can purchase for rider coverage and the length of time between insurance purchase and the actual coverage date. Consider Flood Insurance, Sargent County is an active participant in the National Flood Program, allowing flood insurance to be purchased in the county. After getting flood insurance, there are several things you can do to minimize losses in your home and ensure your family’s safety.

1. Safeguard your possessions.
Create a personal "flood file" containing information about all your possessions and keep it in a secure place, such as a safe deposit box or waterproof container. This file should have:

A copy of your insurance policies with your agent's contact information.
A room-by-room inventory of your possessions, including receipts, photos, and videos.
Copies of all other critical documents, including finance records or receipts of major purchases.

2. Prepare your house.

Make sure your sump pump is working. If the sump pump is a 4-5 years old, have a new one on hand.
Purchase a generator. If you have a generator check it routinely for proper maintainance.
Proper landscaping around a home can assist with water run off instead of water pooling.
Clear debris from gutters and downspouts.
Anchor any fuel tanks.
Raise your electrical components (switches, sockets, circuit breakers, and wiring) at least 12 inches above your home's projected flood elevation.
Place the furnace, water heater, washer, and dryer on cement blocks at least 12 inches above the projected flood elevation.
Move furniture, valuables, and important documents to a safe place.

3. Develop a family emergency plan.

Create a safety kit with drinking water, canned food, first aid, blankets, a radio, and a flashlight.
Post emergency telephone numbers by the phone and teach your children how to dial 911.
Plan and practice a flood evacuation route with your family. Know safe routes from home, work, and school that are on higher ground.
Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to be your emergency family contact.
Have a plan to protect your pets.