5 Things to Do Before Heavy Rains Hit

Heavy rain often hits faster than people expect. A few hours of downpour can flood streets, fill basements, knock out power and cut off roads. The good news is that most of the damage is preventable if you act before the first drops fall. A little prep the day before can save you thousands in repairs and keep your family safe. Here are five things to do before heavy rains hit.

1. Clear your gutters and drains. Clogged gutters send water over the sides and down against your foundation, which is how many basements flood. Clean out the gutters and downspouts, make sure the downspouts empty at least a few feet from the house, and clear leaves from nearby storm drains.
2. Move valuables up and out of the way. Put important documents, electronics and anything you can’t replace on a high shelf or upstairs, ideally in waterproof bags or bins. Bring in or tie down outdoor furniture, trash cans and anything else that could wash away or block drainage.
3. Stock up for being cut off. Heavy rain can knock out power and close roads. Keep at least three days of drinking water and food that doesn’t need cooking, plus flashlights, spare batteries, a power bank, medications and a first-aid kit. Fill your gas tank too, since pumps don’t work without power.
4. Know your flood risk and your way out. Look up whether you’re in a flood zone, and plan at least two routes to higher ground. Sign up for local emergency alerts. If you have a sump pump, test it and get a battery backup. Know how to shut off your power and gas in case water starts coming in.
5. Decide now that you won’t drive through water. Most flood deaths happen in vehicles. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and about a foot can float a car. If a road is covered, turn around and take another route, even if the water looks shallow.

Getting ready for heavy rain doesn’t take special gear or a lot of time. Clear your gutters and drains so water flows away from your home. Move valuables up high and secure anything outside. Stock enough food, water and supplies for a few days without power or road access. Learn your flood risk and plan your way out. And never drive through flooded roads. Do these five things before the storm arrives, and you’ll be ready to ride it out instead of scrambling when the water starts rising.