What to Do in a Flood

Don’t let the unexpected rain on your parade! Be sure to follow these flood safety tips to protect yourself in case of a flood this rainy season and talk to us at New Canaan to see how you can get an insurance policy that keeps your dreams afloat.

Before a flood:

• Purchase or renew insurance and make sure your policy covers flooding. NCIA’s Householder and Commercial & Industrial Fire Insurance can cover Acts of Nature, which includes typhoons and floods.
• Make a safety plan with the members of your household (don’t forget about the four-legged members, too!). Know evacuation routes, have an emergency go-bag, and stock up on non-perishable food items, supplies and water in case you need to leave for an extended period of time. Also, keep any physical emergency documents in a waterproof container and create strong passwords and back-ups for digital documents.

During a flood:

• If told to evacuate, do so immediately. If you can, keep tabs on up-to-date information and instructions regarding flooding by tuning in to (local news authorities).
• If you’re trapped in a building, get to the highest possible floor, but don’t climb into a closed attic to avoid becoming trapped by rising water.
• Don’t walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters. If you happen to be in a car that’s in rapidly moving water, stay inside the car unless water begins to rise inside. In that case, get on its roof.

After a flood:

• Return home only after authorities say it is okay to do so.
• Be aware that snakes and other animals may be trapped in your house.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution and do not touch electrical equipment if it’s wet or if you’re standing in water.
• Don’t wade in the floodwater as it may contain debris or be contaminated. Downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
• Generators or other gas powered machinery should only be used outside and away from windows.
• If your insured property has been damaged, contact us at NCIA.