Everyone is at risk of floods. Flashfloods occur in every state in America and can produce walls of water up to 20 feet high. Floods are caused by storms, melting snow, hurricanes, and drainage problems. Some floods happen over days while flashfloods occur in just a few minutes. The best way to protect against a flood is to be prepared.

Before a Flood:

1. Review your flood insurance coverage. Purchase insurance if you don't already have it. Remember, most homeowners insurance does not protect against flood damage.

2. Educate yourself on the flood risks in your area. Know where your house is located according to sea level and if you live in a specific flood zone.

3. Keep drains and gutters clean to prevent backup.

4. Practice family flood drills. Give everyone specific tasks and instructions.

5. Designate a meeting place in case family members get separated or are coming from different places like work or school.

6. Pay attention to flood forecasts and severe weather warnings. Hurricanes and tropical storms often lead to floods.

During a Flood:

7. Turn off all appliances and get them off the floor.

8. Cut off your electricity at the main breaker.

9. Move all your valuable possessions to the highest level of your house.

10. Stock sinks and bathtubs with fresh water.

Extra Protection Against a Flood

In some situations, sandbag dikes can protect against shallow flooding. They should be constructed three times as wide as they are high. When building a dike, do not put it directly against the walls of a building. Instead, leave several feet for a passageway between the building and the dike. If at all possible, dig a trench under your sandbag dike to prevent it from moving. Do not overfill the sandbags, but be sure to place them at right angles to the layers above and below.

Put together an emergency flood kit and make sure everyone knows where it is. It should include:

• First aid kit
• Bottled water
• Flashlights
• Batteries
• Non-perishable food
• Can opener
• Portable radio
• Blankets
• Warm clothes

Floods are one of the most common hazards in the US—sometimes affecting a single neighborhood and sometimes affecting thousands of people. Most deaths that occur as a result of floods could have been prevented, if the victims had exercised greater caution and readiness. That's why it's important to take the time to prepare for a flood no matter where you live. The more prepared you are, the easier it is to protect your home and family against a flood.