It is imperative to think through the activities involved in developing an emergency flood response plan. While every situation is different, there are common elements that should be addressed in the creation of a plan.
Know your risks
Creating a risk assessment and ranking potential emergencies by likelihood and importance is essential to knowing what to do and what resources to invest in. Create a plan and categorize each risk based on the impact it would have if it occurred and on the likelihood of the event happening in your area.Floods from weather can cause significant damage. Determine your risk of flood from weather — even if you are not in a designated flood zone — by visiting FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center.To fully flood-proof a building, you need to consider other sources of incoming water, including sewers, failing equipment and structural defects such as misdirected downspouts. Create a comprehensive flood risk list by checking your building for all potential water entry points.
Have a Plan for Imminent Flooding
Proactive and extensive flood-proofing is essential, but floods can happen at a moment’s notice. You should also have a plan on hand for when a flood is imminent and you are not fully protected. Purchase Flood Advert products (here) that can help keep water out of vulnerable spots in your building. Also, invest in wet/dry vacuums and dehumidifiers to address small cleanup and drying needs. All 50 states have had floods in the last decade, so flood-proofing based on an assessment of your risk is crucial. Be sure to consult outside resources where necessary for an accurate assessment. Develop a short- and long-term plan, and make sure employees understand their role in any initiatives you put in place.
Seal Up Your Building
Another way to protect your facilities is through “dry” flood-proofing. This involves a comprehensive sealing up of your building to minimize the threat of water getting in. One method includes applying a waterproof sealant to the inside or outside walls to make them impermeable. Sealants can also be used on windows, doors and utility service entry points. For more information on how to deal with a flood crisis, check out this interview with Jonathan Webb, Associate VP of Facilities Management at Central Michigan University.