What can you do other than insure your property to get ready for a flood? Follow these steps to help minimize loss to your home, and ensure your family’s safety.

Prepare your house:

• Make sure your sump pump is working.
• Clear debris from gutters and downspouts.
• Anchor any fuel tanks. An unanchored tank in your basement can be torn free by floodwaters and the broken supply line can contaminate your basement. An unanchored tank outside can be swept downstream, where it can damage other houses.
• Have a licensed electrician raise electric components (switches, sockets, circuit breakers and wiring) at least 12" above your home's projected flood elevation.
• Place the furnace and water heater on masonry blocks or concrete at least 12” above the projected flood elevation.
• If your washer and dryer are in the basement, elevate them on masonry or pressure-treated lumber at least 12” above the projected flood elevation.

Safeguard your possessions:

• Make sure any photos or videos of all of your important possessions are in a safe place. These documents will help you file a full flood insurance claim.
• Store important documents and irreplaceable personal objects (such as photographs) where they won't get damaged. If major flooding is expected in your area, consider putting them in a storage facility.
• If major flooding is expected, move furniture and valuables to the upper levels of your home.

Develop a family emergency plan:

• Post emergency telephone numbers by the phone. Teach children to dial 911.
• Plan and practice a flood evacuation route with your family.
• Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to be the "family contact" in case your family is separated during a flood. Make sure everyone in your family knows the name, address, and phone number of this contact person.
• Don’t forget to have a plan for your pets.

Remember to talk to your insurance agent if you have questions or would like additional information.

For more emergency preparedness ideas go to Ready.gov.