City Hall: 'Knowledge,' 'Right Precautions" Can Prevent Flood Damage

The following is a press release from the Milford Mayor's Office. 

The City of Milford, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are partnering to improve public awareness for National Flood Safety Awareness.  

The city’s goal is to improve understanding about flood risk among individuals, families, businesses and communities. 

Knowledge and the right precautions can protect families, homes and finances.

"We've seen the devastation that floods can cause.  They can happen at any time, anywhere across our region, which means we all need to be prepared now," said FEMA Region III Administrator MaryAnn Tierney. "Having a flood insurance policy for your home or business is just one way to prepare; there are also simple steps you can take now to be prepared for flooding such as developing a family emergency plan, having an emergency supply kit ready to go, and learning about your flood risk."

Floods are the most common hazard in the United States.  However, not all floods are alike. Floods typically occur when too much rain falls or snow melts too quickly.  

Chunks of ice from a thawing river can block its normal flow and force water out of its banks. While some floods develop slowly, flash floods develop suddenly.  

Hurricanes can bring flooding to areas far inland from where they first hit the coast, as we witnessed two years ago from the devastating impacts of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, and last year from Hurricane Sandy.

There are simple steps citizens can take today to reduce their risk to all types of floods.  Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live or work, but especially if you are in low-lying areas, near water, be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live or work, but especially if you are in low-lying areas, near water.  

Flood Safety Awareness Week is an excellent time for people and communities to learn about their flood risk and implement precautions to mitigate the threat to life and property.

Flood-hazard maps have been created to show the flood risk for your community, which helps determine the type of flood insurance coverage you will need since standard homeowners insurance doesn't cover flooding.  

The lower the degree of risk of flooding, the lower the flood insurance premium should be. 

To prepare for a flood, you should:

• Build an emergency kit and make a family communication plan.
• Avoid building in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce your home.
• Elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk.
• Consider installing "check valves" to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.
• If feasible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds.