April Showers May Bring Floods

April 1, 2010 - PRLog -- FACT: Floods are the most common and widespread of all natural disasters.

FACT: During the 20th century, floods were the number one natural disaster in the United States in terms of the number of lives lost and property damage

FACT: Since 1990, floods have taken more than 10,000 lives in the United States

(Information provided by the Weather Channel)

Flooding is a fairly common emergency. It is critical to understand what options are available to ensure that you are better prepared for and protected from the consequences of a flood. And, although most people breathe a sigh of relief when springtime begins, April showers bring damage if surface water accumulates in your dwelling.
“Flooding may be small and localized or major and catastrophic,” says Allstate New York spokesperson Krista Conte. “Either way, it is important to understand what your current policy covers and why flood insurance is something to consider.”
A flood can be defined as a general and temporary condition during which two or more acres of normally dry land area, or two or more properties, are partially or completely inundated. A flood can result from:
•   An unusual and rapid accumulation of surface water, or runoff, from any source such as a heavy rainstorm or melting snow.
•   An overflow of inland or tidal waters.
•   Storm surges caused by tropical storms or hurricanes.
•   Mudflows resulting from surface water.

Flood insurance is available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), a division of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Flood insurance for homes or small businesses can be purchased directly from the federal government or through insurance companies or agents.

So, what exactly is flood insurance? Unlike a standard homeowners policy, flood insurance covers losses to your property caused by flooding. According to FEMA, policies are available in three forms: Dwelling (most homes), General Property (apartments and businesses) and Residential Condominium Building Association (condominiums).  

“A homeowner can purchase flood insurance, which covers flooding, as long as they live in a community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program,” explains Conte. “You should talk to your insurance agent if you have any questions, would like additional information or are ready to purchase a flood insurance policy.”

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The Allstate Corporation  is the nation’s largest publicly held personal lines insurer, reinventing protection and retirement to help more than 17 million households insure what they have today and better prepare for tomorrow.