Did you know that the risk of flooding in a home is five times greater than the risk of fire, if you live in a Special Flood Hazard Area?" And a typical Homeowners policy does NOT provide flood coverage. You need a separate flood policy.

Flooding is a danger that can happen during any season, so it's always a good time to talk about it. Heavy rains and strong storms can cause rivers and canals to overflow. Even if you don't live near water, a downpour can lead to backed-up drains and sewers, which can flood basements or ground floors. A strong storm or hurricane can also cause devastation hundreds of miles inland. (Remember Hurricane Isabel last year?)

Prepare for floods

• Take an inventory of your home's contents and store it off the premises.
• Keep emergency supplies handy, such as a portable radio, flashlights, first-aid kit, medication, food and drink, and cash.
• If you're planning to remodel, FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) recommends that you check with local authorities for your area's flood elevation level. Then raise electrical and heating systems 12 inches above the height that the water would reach during a 100-year flood event. Check www.fema.gov for details.
• Don't depend on governmental relief: Less than 10 percent of all floods are declared national disasters* Let us help you get the flood coverage you need — it can mean the difference between financial devastation and a clean start.