PREVENTION
Make sure you know where to turn off your gas, electricity and water and - mark the valve or switch with a sticker to help you remember.

Shut off the main water supply if you will be away from your home for several days or longer.

Check out all water lines including - supply lines to sinks, washing machines, icemakers and dishwasher. Look for kinks, deterioration or leaking connections.

Don't forget your Hot Water Heaters - most last ten to fifteen years. Wet spots or rust may signal a problem.

Keep Watch! Soft spots, discolorations and mildew odors in your flooring, walls and ceilings are an indication of deterioration due to moisture. Start looking for a water leak. Should you find a water leak in your home or business, please call our friends at TLC Plumbing.

And should flooding occur, be prepared!

PREPARATION

Make sure you have adequate insurance. Check that your policy covers damage to garages, sheds and outbuildings if you need it, as well as storm or flood damage to gates, fences, hedges and garden plants.

Make a Flood Kit - include useful numbers you may need, important personal documents, a flashlight, rubber gloves, waterproof clothing, drinking water, a first aid kit and blankets.

Don't Forget Your Children's Essentials: for example, milk, baby food, sterilized bottles and spoons, diapers and wipes, spare clothing, comforter, favorite toy or best teddy.

Floodwater can contaminate foodstuffs and chemicals so keep all hazardous materials (paint, automotive oil, insecticide, etc.) high up in your garage/shed.

Sentimental items can't be replaced - keep them high enough that if flooding does occur, they won't be damaged.