According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), around 44% of the U.S. is at risk of flooding this spring, as a swollen Mississippi threatens to flood parts of the eastern U.S., while historic snowpack in the Sierra Nevada Mountains is increasing the risk of flooding in the west. Flooding is the most common and expensive natural disaster in the U.S., according to NOAA. However, a survey from Erie Insurance found that only a small percentage of homeowners recognize the danger of flooding to their properties and families. "There are several things homeowners can do to prevent water damage, like redirecting water away from their homes, sealing roofs and making sure plumbing systems are well maintained," Michelle Tennant, Erie Insurance vice president of product management, said in a press release. "But they should also talk with their insurance agent to make sure they're covered in the unfortunate event that damage does occur." While flooding events are devastating, policyholders can take steps to stymie losses from high waters, and Allianz Risk Consulting offers these tips:
- Develop a comprehensive, written flood emergency plan to mitigate the exposures. The plan should include: assigning emergency organizational roles and responsibilities, providing training at least annually and a business continuity plan for restoring operations after the event, among others.
- Review buildings for potential openings where flood water may enter and seal openings as necessary.
- Inspect all existing flood prevention systems if provided, such as dikes, walls, flood barriers, etc., and make repairs as necessary.
- Relocate important equipment, stock and records to higher elevations not subject to flooding.
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Steve Hallo
Steve Hallo is managing editor of PropertyCasualty360.com. He can be reached at [email protected]
