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As Tropical Storm Hermine moves through Texas this week, several flash flood warnings and heavy rainfall alerts were also 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.
The Better Business Bureau 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.
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 1,500 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,” Carrie A. Hurt, president and CEO of BBB serving Central, Coastal and Southwest Texas, said.
“Scams related to home repairs, clean-up efforts, heating and cooling equipment and flood-damaged cars are among the most common post-disaster misfortunes,” she said.
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)
