How Can I Prepare for a Flood Disaster?

File a claim online on your Allstate policy or your National Flood Insurance Policy purchased through an Allstate agent or call 800-54-STORM (800-547-8676).

Flooding may be localized or catastrophic. It may be part of a hurricane, thunderstorm, sudden thaw or other widespread disaster. Many floods arrive with advance warning so you can prepare. Weather forecasts will indicate that storms are on the way or that nearby rivers are rising because of a heavy run-off upstream. Depending on how much time you have, there are steps you can take to minimize any losses.

• Avoid building in a flood prone area unless you elevate and reinforce your home.
• Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel if susceptible to flooding.
• Install "check valves" in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into the drains of your home.
• Seal the walls in your basement with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.
• Become familiar with the emergency flood plan for your area.
• Prepare an emergency supplies kit including: three day water supply, three day supply of non-perishable food with manual can-opener, disposable plates, cups and utensils, first aid kit including prescription medications, battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries, personal hygiene items and any essential items for individual family members.
• Keep papers, valuables and irreplaceable items on upper floors or higher elevations.

• Listen to the radio or television for information.
• Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
• Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain.
• If you must evacuate:
  • Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
  • 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. You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away.

• Listen for news reports to learn whether the community's water supply is safe to drink.
• Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated or electrically charged.
• Avoid moving water.
• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
• Stay away from downed power lines and report them to the power company.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
• Stay out of buildings surrounded by floodwaters.
• Use extreme caution if entering flooded buildings.
• Be cautious when clearing or moving debris. Floodwaters may have carried animals or snakes into the area.
• Clean and disinfect everything that got wet.
• Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and leaching systems.

• If you purchased a National Flood Insurance Program policy through Allstate, contact your Allstate agent directly, report your claim online or call 800-54-STORM (800-547-8676).
• If your property suffered damage from wind, hail, fire, etc. which may be covered by your Allstate Homeowners policy, report the damage at the same time that you report your flood loss. Separate homeowner and flood claims will be established.
• If your vehicle was damaged due to perils covered by the comprehensive portion of your auto policy, report that too. An auto claim will be established.
• Make an inventory list of all damaged contents for your flood adjuster. Keep in mind that not all contents are destroyed by water so they may be able to be cleaned and disinfected.
• Look for holes in the roof, walls, or windows and cover them with boards, tarp, or plastic sheeting to prevent additional damage.
• Remove as much debris and mud as possible.

*Information provided by FEMA and more information is available at www.FEMA.gov.

Learn more about flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) serviced by Allstate. Contact your Allstate agent to purchase this coverage.