subject: Flood Protection Barriers Protect Your Property [print this page] Flood protection barriers work by protecting the two sides and bottom of an opening to a business or home. The barriers play an important part of a flood protection plan. All homes and businesses need to develop a flood protection program. Find out if your home or business is situated on a floodplain. Flash flooding can occur anywhere in the world. Heavy downpours can occur in any space, time or place.
River And Lake Floods
Heavy rains can occur in rivers and lakes at any time of the year. Too much rainfall will cause the river and lakes to overfill and spill out from its boundaries. When this happens the surrounding lake becomes flooded. Homes and businesses located near rivers and lakes are susceptible to flooding. It's important to plan for these events before they occur.
Seaside Floods
Homes and businesses located near the sea are at risk for potential flooding. The main threats come from tropical storms, tsunamis and hurricanes. Strong thunderstorms and hurricanes produce high winds that push the water inland, and can cause flooding damage for miles. Tsunamis can occur from an earthquake or a volcanic eruption. This produces large waves of water that rush inland and cause damage to residential homes and businesses.
Flash Floods
Flash floods are known as the most dangerous type of flood event. A flash flood occurs when a thunderstorm produces too much rain for the ground to absorb. The runoff builds quickly and produces flooding. They can also result from dam failure and rapid snow melt. Large urban areas are particularly susceptible to flash floods. Development of city streets and highways decrease the amount of rain absorbed into the ground. This causes the water to build and produce flash flooding.
Flood Protection
The first step to developing a flood protection plan is to buy flood insurance. Flood insurance cost will vary depending on where you live. You can also install barriers to protect your home and business from floods. Contact a local company for an estimate of the cost to install barriers in your home. They work by keeping the water from entering homes and businesses. Keep a close eye on the weather, and check you local weather reports. Pack an emergency bag with basic supplies for when you have to evacuate. Include important personal documents and turn off the electricity to your home. Make sure all family members are familiar with the emergency plan and review the steps often.
Knowledge and preparation are the keys to safety when it comes to planning for natural disasters. Learn about the risk factors in your area. Develop a flood protection plan that applies to the potential flood risk found in your area. Learn more about your city's flood and emergency plans.
