Blog

Flood Safety and Precautions

posted by TrueNorth Companies on Wednesday, September 5, 2018

If you live along the Cedar River or in an area recently hit by excessive rain and flooding, we are providing information to guide you with cleanup and reporting a claim.

Steps to prevent and manage disaster due to flooding. 

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), floods are one of the most common disasters in the United States. It's important to be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam. Even small streams, culverts or dry stream beds that appear harmless in dry weather can flood.

After a Flood

• Throw away food that is not safe to eat and use bottled water until the local authorities have determined that tap water is safe for drinking and cooking.
• Avoid floodwaters and protect yourself from mosquitoes to avoid contracting any diseases.
• Stay away from damaged buildings and structures.
• Do not touch fallen power lines or turn on your power until instructed by a qualified electrician.
• Wear protective clothing when handling hazardous materials or cleaning up mold.
• Clean up flood damage promptly.

Cleanup Hazards: 

Cleanup work of any kind can be dangerous, but flood conditions make this work even more difficult. Flooded areas present hazards, like mold and the risk of drowning. The following recommendations have been set by OSHA and will help keep you safe and healthy while cleaning up.

Click on the buttons below for a list of flood cleanup hazards and precautions compiled by the TrueNorth Risk Management team.

  Flood Cleanup Hazards  

  In the Event of a House Flood  

Flood Claims & Coverage

In the event you suffer damage to your property, we recommend you report your loss directly to your insurance carrier to expedite the process. Should you have concerns or need additional guidance along the way, your TrueNorth representative will be here to assist. 

Should you have a flood policy which follows the standards of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), the policy will provide coverage for not only damage to your property, but up to $1,000 for costs you incur to protect the covered home or building from a flood or imminent danger of flood. Sandbags, fill for temporary levees, plastic sheeting, lumber, and pumps are considered reasonable expenses under the National Flood Insurance Policy.  For additional guidance, you may call the NFIP directly at (800)638-6620.

As a reminder, some policies provide limited coverage for protection and/or removal of your property if flood coverage is included in the policy.  Please consult with your representative at TrueNorth if you have questions pertaining to your coverage.

  Begin the Claims Process  

TrueNorth Availability

Our committed team of insurance staff can help you and your family recover in the wake of a natural disaster by providing you with support and comprehensive insurance and financial solutions that will assist and protect both your family and business.

Visit www.iTrueNorth.com or call us (319) 739-1277 for more information or an insurance quote to help safeguard the things that matter most to you.