What to do Before and After a Flood in Riverside

1/12/2022 (Permalink)

Remember that flash floods can occur suddenly, and miles from the source of water.

In Riverside flooding can happen anytime, but October to April are our rainiest months.

What to do before a Flood

Take steps to protect your home, family, and financial security throughout the year, and take extra precautions when flooding is predicted in your area.

The best way to protect your home and belongings from flood damage is to purchase flood insurance – don’t let your hard work be washed away.

Here are a few steps you and your family can take to be ready for flooding:

• Get Flood Insurance- Most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. Do an annual “insurance check-up” with your agent to make sure you have the right coverage and amounts of coverage.
• Know Your Risk- Look up your address in the Flood Map Service Center to learn if you live, work, or travel in areas that are prone to flooding.
• Take a Household Inventory- Take photos and videos of all major household items and valuables. Retain these documents in a safe place because they are important when filing insurance claims.
• Store Important Documents- Save copies of birth certificates, passports, medical records, and insurance papers in a safe, dry place. Keep original documents in a watertight safety deposit box.

Did you know?

When flooding is imminent or predicted, National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) policyholders are eligible to receive up to $1,000 to purchase loss avoidance supplies like tarps, sandbags, and more.

Steps to minimize your flood losses

Minimize your potential losses from flooding by taking the following steps:

• Elevate and Anchor utilities- Elevate and anchor your critical utilities, including electrical panels, propane tanks, sockets, wiring, appliances, and heating systems.
• Clear Debris From Gutters- Make sure that you clear any debris from gutters and downspouts to avoid an accumulation of water.
• Elevate or Move Your Furniture- When flooding is predicted or imminent, move furniture and valuables to a safe place, such as an attic or the highest floor of your home.

When flooding is imminent – take care of your physical safety

When a flood is imminent or occurring, your first priority should be the physical safety of you, your loved ones, and your pets.

Stay alert by monitoring the local news and weather reports and sign up for emergency alerts. Have a communication plan ready in the event of a power outage.

In Riverside flooding can happen anytime, but October to April are our rainiest months. When there's a flood risk, the National Weather Service issues alerts. Sign up to receive emergency alerts.

Sand Bag Locations

Driving

Water depth can be difficult to judge, especially at night, and you may not see a road that is washed out too! Remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.

Outdoor Activities

Before going out to hike, bike, or another outdoor activity, check the weather forecast and information about the area. Is it prone to flash floods?

Have a back-up plan. After planning and travelling to your destination, it can be hard to decide to cancel your activity. If you have a back-up plan in an area that is known to be safer, you’re less likely to put yourself in a dangerous situation.

Watch for suddenly darkening skies or listen for thunder. Move to your back-up plan if these conditions start to develop.

Remember that flash floods can occur suddenly, and miles from the source of water. You may not be able to hear or see a storm that can cause a flash flood.

Have an escape plan and be prepared to ride it out, even by climbing a tree or other sturdy object. Some floods can take hours to recede, but even getting behind a jutting piece of canyon wall could protect you from the powerful waterflow.

When there's a flood risk, the National Weather Service issues alerts

 Sign up to receive emergency alerts

Call SERVPRO of West Riverside City to Inspect your Property for water damage due to flooding.  We can help determine if it's worth submitting a claim through your insurance.

Office 951-351-8033

We are open 7 days a week!

Open 24 hours a day!