Floods are the most common natural disaster in the United States. Flooding can cause significant property damage, and on the Outer Banks, where evacuation from the barrier islands, or even a specific property, is not possible once storm conditions reach a certain point, flooding can be particularly dangerous. If a flood is likely in your area, be aware of evacuation orders and other precautionary directions from local Emergency Management. Learn how you can stay safe and reduce your flood risks by using from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).
Flood Safety
- Be aware that flash flooding is very dangerous and can move quickly. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
- Be aware of low lying areas and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flooding can occur in these areas with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain. On the Outer Banks, tide heights and strong winds can cause soundside or oceanside flooding in otherwise “good” weather.
- Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
- Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. Water may be deeper than it appears, and rising. Do not assume that it is shallow enough to drive through!
- Do not camp or park your vehicle in susceptible areas when potential flooding conditions are favorable.
If flooding has occurred:
- Be aware that flood waters are not “clean”. They are carrying contaminants that could include septic overflow, fuel oils, and a host of other microbial contaminants. Wear protective gear if you must enter flooded area.
- Do enter a flooded area that may have live electric in contact with water.
YOUR HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE DOES NOT COVER FLOOD!
- Standard homeowners and renters insurance does not cover flood damage. Flood coverage, however, is available in the form of a separate policy both from the National Flood Insurance Program – NFIP (888-379-9531) and from a few private insurers.
