Hurricane Preparation: Irene

Hurricane Preparation Information from FEMA

With Irene threatening a large portion of the coastal United States, people will be looking to you as trusted authorities on what to do before, during, and after the storm. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) has developed a number of resources that can help you communicate with residents about preparing for and recovering from a hurricane.

1. Hurricane Preparation: Safeguard your possessions.

Create a personal flood file containing information about all your valuable possessions.  Keep it in a secure place. A safety deposit box or waterproof container should do. This file should include:

• A copy of your insurance policies with your agents’ contact information.
• A household inventory: For insurance purposes, be sure to keep a written and visual (i.e., videotaped or photographed) record of all major household items and valuables, even those stored in basements, attics or garages. Create files that include serial numbers and store receipts for major appliances and electronics. Have jewelry and artwork appraised. These documents are critically important when filing insurance claims. For more information visit www.knowyourstuff.org.
• Copies of all other critical documents, including finance records or receipts of major purchases.

2. Hurricane Preparation: Prepare your house.

Inspect your sump pump. If you have a sump pump, make sure it’s working and then install a battery-operated backup, in case of a power failure. Installing a water alarm will also let you know if water is accumulating in your basement.
Clear debris from gutters and downspouts.
Anchor 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. Hurricane Preparation: 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. This is a vital part of hurricane preparation.
Take time to prepare your family and business from the potential impact of the storm.

Please email us at info@femafloodsmart.com with any questions about NFIP and FloodSmart.

Stay safe,
The FloodSmart Team