Summer downpours in Michigan can cause flash flooding – but do you know what to do if that happens around your home?

What to Do During a Flash Flood

During a flash flood, it’s essential that you:

Get to higher ground immediately.
Evacuate your home if flooding is possible.
Make sure you follow escape routes marked around the city.
Take your pets with you if you evacuate – but remember that many shelters are not pet-friendly, so plan accordingly.
Don’t try to drive through the water – even a few inches of moving water can wash away a car.
Don’t try to cross moving water on foot – like a car, even a few inches can knock you off your feet.
Turn on the TV or listen to the radio, or check your phone for updates, on what to do next. Usually, the Washtenaw County SKWYARN Storm Spotter Facebook page has information.

If the flash flood affects your home, it can cause serious water damage inside your basement or on your first floor. In that case, you need to call a flood and water damage restoration specialist as soon as possible.

Preparing for a Flood

To prepare for a flood, you can purchase a flood insurance policy – but that only comes in handy after your home has sustained damage. You need to prepare properly in the event of an emergency, so keep a kit of supplies (including medication) handy that you can take with you if you need to evacuate. You can also put together a kit that you keep in your home in case resources are cut off.