How Can I Prepare for Flooding?
Choose a LEVEL 2 step to learn about below, or change your desired Level by choosing 1 or 3 above.
Raise Wiring
Raise electrical wiring above the highest expected flood line to reduce damage to your home. Raising electrical system components in a 1,000 square foot single-floor structure will cost about $1,500 to $2,000.
Text source: FEMA | Photo source: Ben Brennan, FEMA
Anchor
Unanchored fuel tanks can be moved by flood waters, posing serious threats to you, others and your property. They also pose a threat to public safety and the environment. Fuel tanks can be attached to concrete slabs, inside or outside your property. Anchoring a 1,000 gallon fuel tank costs about $300 to $500.
Text source: FEMA | Photo source: Ruin Rader/flickr
Sewer Backflow
Installing backflow valves for your toilet stops flood water from entering your home. Having a plumber or contractor install one backflow valve will cost between $600 and $1,400. You may also consider installing floor drain plugs or standpipe to prevent sewer water from entering your basement, which will cost about $10 or less.
Text source: FEMA, woodriver.org | Photo source: Posh, LLC
Barriers
Place sandbags in places where water can get into your home, such as front or back doors, garage doors, or deck doors. Cover the door and the space at the bottom of the door with plastic such as a tarp before laying down sandbags. One 50-pound sandbag costs about $20.
Text source: FEMA, Home Depot | Photo source: Patsy Lynch, FEMA
Boat
A row boat or inflatable raft can be useful after a flood. A two-person row boat can will cost about $600 and up. A two-person inflatable raft will cost about $20.
Text source: FEMA, Home Depot | Photo source: Patsy Lynch, FEMA
Alternative Power
An alternative source of power such as an electric generator is useful if power goes out after a flood. Depending on your needs, electric generators can cost from about $150 to $5,000.
Text source: FEMA, Home Depot | Photo source: Ed Edhal
Landline
There may be times when cell phone service is down during or after a flooding event. It is useful to have a landline telephone to communicate. Landlines have their own electricity delivered through the telephone wires.
Text source: FEMA, Home Depot | Photo source: Tomomarusan
Safe Box
In the case of evacuation, it might be useful to have a portable safe box at home that contains valuables and important documents. A portable safe box can cost about $20 to $250.
Text Souce: Home Depot | Photo Source: Home Depot