When it is stormy, be flood smart; what to do after flooding

ST. GEORGE — Due to recent flooding in Utah, the Federal Emergency Maintenance Agency’s National Flood Insurance Program is offering the following tips on what to do after a flood.

  • Flooding temporary closes Highway 91 in Enoch, Utah, June 10, 2015 | Photo courtesy of Leisa Jaime, St. George News
    Flooding temporarily closes Highway 91 in Enoch, Utah, June 10, 2015 | Photo courtesy of Leisa Jaime, St. George News

    Check for damage | Check for structural damage before re-entering your home. If you suspect damage to water, gas, electric or sewer lines, contact authorities.

  • Remove wet items | Immediately remove wet carpeting, furniture and bedding. Any item holding moisture can develop mold within 24 to 48 hours. Clean and disinfect everything touched by floodwaters. Cleanup tips can be found here.
  • Plan before you repair | The rebuilding decisions you make now to lower your risk and insurance costs can result in benefits over the long term. Contact your local building inspection, planning office or county clerk’s office for more information.
  • File your flood insurance claim | To file your claim, you’ll need your insurance company’s name, policy number and a number where you can be reached. Take photos of any water in the house and anything damaged in your home. Make a detailed list of all damaged or lost items.

Residents who are not insured for flooding are urged to protect themselves from the financial costs of future floods by obtaining flood insurance.

Tips for how to survive a flood can be found in a recent report by St. George News.

During any flood emergency, stay tuned to your weather radio, commercial radio or television, follow St. George News at StGeorgeNews.com and St. George News Facebook for weather alerts and updates relevant to Southern Utah. Emerging information may save your life.

Resources

  • National Flood Insurance Claims Handbook
  • FloodSmart website
  • Cleanup tips
  • Contact the National Flood Insurance Program: call 1-800-427-2419

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Twitter: @stgnews

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