Prepare for Flooding as Hermine Moves Through Texas
BBB Provides Tips for Dealing with Flood Damage and Avoiding Storm Schemes
Austin, TX - September 7, 2010 – As Tropical Storm Hermine moves through Texas this week, several flash flood warnings and heavy rainfall alerts have been issued. According to the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), a flash flood is a rapid flooding of water in low-lying areas, caused by intense rainfall, and occurring very quickly with little-to-no warning. BBB urges consumers and business owners to pay attention to the flood warning alerts, plan ahead to take care of damage and avoid potential scams in the wake of the storm.
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When under a flash flood warning or watch alert:
· Do not walk through flowing water that is more than ankle deep.
· Do not drive through flooded areas. Even shallow water should be avoided. Water only one foot deep can displace 1500 lbs, and two feet of water can easily carry most automobiles.
· According to FEMA, most flood-related deaths occur in mobile homes. If you are in one during a flood, be sure that you have a plan to move to a new location or designated shelter instead.
In the case of severe flooding in your business or home:
· Check for structural damage before re-entering the building.
· Do not use matches, cigarette lighters or other open flames upon re-entering your property. If you smell gas or hear hissing, open a window, leave quickly and call the gas company from a safe place.
· Depending on the severity of the flood damage, keep power off until an electrician has inspected the building for safety.
· Call your insurance agent to file a claim. Let your agent know your location if you have to leave your home.
· If possible, take photos of any water saturation. An insurance adjuster may need to see what's been damaged in order to process your claim.
Following the storm, BBB advises all consumers to be careful of potential insurance or repair scams.
“Not only is it important to be prepared for the consequences of Mother Nature’s outbreaks, but also for the outbreaks of unscrupulous people who tend to use natural disasters as an opportunity to prey on the victimized community,” said Carrie A. Hurt, President and CEO of BBB serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas. “Scams related to home repairs, clean-up efforts, heating and cooling equipment and flood-damaged cars are among the most common post-disaster misfortunes.”
Tips for avoiding common storm-related scams:
· Be wary of door-to-door workers who claim your home is unsafe. If you are concerned about possible structural damage in your home, check with your insurance company about policy coverage and specific filing requirements.
· Never pay for all repairs in advance and don't pay with cash.
· Take time to shop around for contractors, get competitive bids, and check references and licensing requirements.
Keep emergency numbers close by:
EVACUATION INFORMATION: 2-1-1
FEMA: 1-800-621-3362
FOOD STAMPS: 1-800-221-5689
RED CROSS: 1-800-733-2767
ATTORNEY GENERAL: 1-800-252-8011
(Price Gouging)
ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE: 1-800-525-5555
TXDOT STATEWIDE ROAD CLOSURE INFO: 1-800-452-9292
RELAY SERVICE: 7-1-1
(Hearing Impaired and Visual Disabilities)
To check the reliability of the company and find trustworthy businesses, visit BBB.
About BBB:
BBB's mission is to be the leader in advancing marketplace trust. BBB accomplishes this mission by creating a community of trustworthy businesses, setting standards for marketplace trust, encouraging and supporting best practices, celebrating marketplace role models and denouncing substandard marketplace behavior.
Businesses that earn BBB Accreditation contractually agree and adhere to the organization's high standards of ethical business behavior. BBB is the preeminent resource to turn to for objective, unbiased information on businesses and charities.
Contact BBB serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas at (512) 445-4748.
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