Recovering from a flood

Protecting yourself and your family

• Do not enter your home if flood waters are over the first floor.
• Flood waters may bring poisonous snakes into your home. When walking through your home wear thick shoes and be alert.
• Do not consume food that has come in contact with flood waters.
• Beware of fire hazards such as broken gas lines, flooded electrical circuits and flammable or explosive materials coming from upstream. 

Protecting your property 

• Inspect your home for damage, especially for cracks in foundations.
• If your basement has flooded, do not pump it out all at once. Remove about one-third of the water per day. The wet ground surrounding your basement may cause the floors to buckle and the walls to collapse.
• Water may have weakened walls and ceilings. Be on the lookout for falling walls and plaster.
• Make temporary repairs. Keep all receipts done for work on your property.
• Notify your insurance agent or company representative as soon as possible. If you have vacated the premises, make sure your representative knows where to contact you.
• Take pictures of damaged property and keep notes. Use pictures and inventory lists to help your insurance agent and adjuster assess the damages.
• Don't be rushed into signing repair contracts. Deal with reputable contractors. If you're unsure about a contractor's credentials, contact your claims adjuster, Better Business Bureau or Chamber of Commerce for referrals. Make sure the contractor you hire is experienced in repair work - not just new construction. Be sure of payment terms and consult your agent or adjuster before you sign any contracts.