The Rising Tide: Flood Prep and Protection

Fortunately, there are few places around the world that have to worry about the impacts of a major flood. Most of the time you hear about flooding from the result of long, heavy rains, rapid melting of snow or ice, or the bursting of dams or levees, but the most disastrous floods are related to hurricanes, tsunamis and volcanic activity.

Floods are a natural product of stream flow in the ever-changing environment that we live in. They have been occurring throughout the Earth’s history and are expected as long as our water cycle continues to exist. Weather patterns determine the amount and location of rain and snowfall, but the amount of time over which it occurs is never predictable.

A flood occurs when water in a usually dry area rises a great amount. Floods can grow rapidly, but most of the time, take hours or days to develop. The longer it takes for water to rise, the more time residents have to collect belongings and escape possible danger.

Flash floods can develop quickly, sometimes within just a few minutes and without any visible warning of clouds or rain. They can have a dangerous wall of water that can sweep away houses, trees, bridges and cars in its path. Most structures cannot withstand the force because the dirt underneath them are swept away, causing the foundation to crack.

Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in low-lying areas. Even small streams, creeks, gullies, dry streambeds, or low-lying ground that seems harmless in dry weather can flood.

Recently, engineers have been able to create some of the most effective levee systems, dikes and dams in areas that attract massive flooding. New computer technology has also been created to predict where floods will occur and their severity.

What to do?

There is no way we can prevent natural disasters from happening, but there are certain steps you can take to make sure you and your family members are safe:

  • Listen to the Weather Report & Stock Up: Listen to the weather report. Stock up on groceries, preferably food products that are not hard to prepare, and buy some candles in case the electricity goes out. Purchase long-life batteries and make sure you have a radio.
  • Move to Higher Ground: If you live in a coastal area being threatened move to higher ground. Bring necessities with you just in case you cannot return home for a long period of time.
  • Plant Trees: Plant trees if you live in an area prone to flooding. They can help protect your property against high winds and excess amounts of water.
  • Make a Plan: Have an evacuation plan with members of your household and community. Knowing what to do in case of emergency is crucial to everyone’s safety.
  • Have a list of Contacts: Have a list of helpful contacts. The local government’s number, the hospital, Red Cross and other emergency groups could help save a life.

Visit the Rainbow International of NWI Website
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Valparaiso, IN 46385
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There are still dangers even after floodwater has receded. The area can be contaminated with hazardous materials like sharp debris, pesticides, fuel, mold and sewage. In extreme cases, residents can be stranded without clean drinking water, which can lead to deadly waterborne diseases.

The majority of homes damaged by floods are those that lie on coastlines or in riverbeds. Yes, the view might be worth it, but homeowners should know that there is a much higher risk of floods in these areas. Many governments require residents of flood-prone areas to purchase flood insurance and build more resistant structures to firmly hold their homes in place.

Flood losses are not covered under homeowners’ insurance policies, and there may be a 30-day waiting period before flood insurance goes into effect, so don’t delay. Flood insurance is available whether the building is in or out of an identified floodprone area.

How much you rebuild and replace after a flood really depends on how much you can pay for. There are four organizations that can help you through the recovery process: voluntary agencies, insurance, government disaster programs and businesses. If you are fully insured, you may only have to pay the deductible and your flood insurance policy will pay for the assistance of professional services.

Rainbow International ® - Industry Leader and Innovator

Rainbow International provides “best practices” with integrity and the highest of standards in restoration and cleaning services. Utilizing the most advanced equipment, innovative technologies and a built-in accountability system, our professional emergency crews complete every job rapidly to assure an uncompromising commitment to service excellence and customer satisfaction. Ultimately, we don’t just restore homes and businesses; we restore value, stability, and peace of mind.

Established in 1981, Rainbow International, a subsidiary of The Dwyer Group®, offers over 300 global service locations. As a premier provider of restoration and cleaning services, Rainbow International deploys professional emergency response crews with advanced equipment, state-of-the-art technology and training to restore property, contents and, ultimately, peace of mind. Insurance, commercial and residential customers depend on Rainbow International to mitigate damage and restore contents for businesses and homes suffering from water, fire, smoke, odor and mold situations.

For more information please visit www.rainbowintl.com/nwi. For additional white papers or to offer suggestions for future topics, please visit www rainbowintl.com/best-practice or join our “Rainbow International Restoration and Cleaning” group on LinkedIn.