Weather is reliably unpredictable. Even when forecasters and meteorologists warn residents about approaching storms, there is no way for them to accurately predict the severity of rainfall and accompanying wind and lightning. As a result, residents and businesses owners need to understand what to do when dangerous weather approaches in order to protect themselves and their assets. In light of recent storms and floods throughout the greater Houston area, today's blog focuses on what to do when facing dangerous floodwaters to prevent flood-related deaths or damages.
Turn Around, Don't Drown
According to the National Weather Service, more individuals are killed each year by floodwaters than any other storm-related hazard. Sadly, more than half of these deaths occur when individuals drive into flooded streets and roadways. If possible, never attempt driving during torrential rainstorms, avoid flood-prone streets and highways, and never ignore or drive around roadblocks or barricades set up on flooded roads. Barricades are set up to protect the safety of drivers and to prevent the loss of life and vehicles. Also, if you are a business owner or manager, do not require or encourage commercial drivers to attempt driving to work during hazardous storm conditions.
Protect Assets
If floodwaters begin to rise near a home, apartment, or business property, it is key to move important documents and valuables to an upstairs area or higher location to prevent losses. Individuals and families should invest in a portable waterproof safe for important documents, records, family photos, and financial paperwork. Business owners should invest in off-store storage or cloud-based networks to ensure that financial records, sensitive data, and corporate emails are secure if severe weather hits. Furniture, art, electronics and other valuables can always be moved to a higher elevation inside the home or business to reduce losses as well.
Make An Evacuation Plan
Unfortunately, many residents and business owners do not have evacuation plans in place when floodwaters threaten homes, apartments, or office or retail buildings. It is critical to have an emergency evacuation plan in place in case floodwaters threaten personal safety. If floodwaters force an evacuation from a home, apartment, or business, ask for help from first responders or emergency services rather than attempting to escape on your own, as this could lead to increased danger from fast moving waters or hidden dangers in the murky water.
Floodwaters pose a dangerous threat to individuals, families, and businesses, but caution and smart planning early can help reduce many of these preventable deaths and losses. Aegis Insurance & Financial Services can assist families and businesses secure Flood Insurance to protect assets, and also offers Personal and Commercial Auto Insurance to protect vehicles damaged by flood waters. Contact Aegis today at 713-850-7622 for more information, or go online to request a free quote on Flood Insurance, Commercial or Personal Auto coverage, or any of our other top quality Personal or Commercial lines of coverage.