Spring means flood potential for homeowners

There are some things you can control; Mother Nature isn't one of them. The spring of 2008 reminded us that even though we didn't make the list for the top 10 areas affected by flooding; the danger is very real to the Flathead and surrounding areas. With an above-average mountain snowpack, the result of warm weather could be devastating. Nobody knows that better than the experts at Kalispell based National Flood Services; the largest flood insurance administrator in the Nation who responds to the personal and financial devastation of flooding across the country every day.

The reality of the danger is right here in the local community, and so is the resource for protection. The week of March 16, 2009 marks Flood Safety Awareness Week. The flood remapping that occurred in the Flathead and surrounding areas in 2007 reinforces the idea behind Flood Safety Awareness. Everyone regardless of location needs to be aware of the risks of flooding, which is the number one natural disaster in the US.

Generally, all properties are located in a flood zone. It's just a matter of which zone the property lies in. Flood zones fit into one of the two major classifications: Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), or Moderate, Minimal Hazard Areas (Non-SFHA). The flood zone offers insight in determining the severity of risk for a structure. The City and County Planning and Zoning offices can provide copies of the current flood maps to assist in determining a flood zone. A local insurance agency can also be contacted to provide a Flood Hazard Zone Determination to identify the flood zone.

Prevention of flooding may not be viable, so preparedness is essential. Flood mitigation efforts shouldn't stop at the community level; homeowners must also take proactive measures. Ensuring the sump pump is working, partnering with a community official or engineer to determine if installing flood vents is necessary, moving valuables, and protecting your animals are all proactive measures that can be taken to minimize potential flood danger.

Recovery efforts can be enhanced by purchasing flood insurance. This type of insurance is offered to help protect against the financial devastation that can be caused by flooding. Anyone can purchase flood insurance as long as the property is located in a community that participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Federal flood insurance costs the same regardless of where it is purchased because the rates are set by the NFIP.

The flood zone in which the property is located is a factor in determining the insurance rate. Some other factors include the age of the structure, the foundational support system 'slab, basement, piling, etc.) and the occupancy type. A flood insurance policy for a property located in a Moderate, Minimal Hazard Areas (Non-SFHA) can cost as little as $119 annually. It is important to speak with an insurance agent to understand the protection the flood insurance policy offers.

The standard waiting period for a flood policy is 30 days, so it's crucial to be proactive and take action before it's too late. Flood insurance is available through local insurance agents in the Flathead Valley and surrounding areas. The agent can help answer any questions regarding flood and provide a quote to purchase a flood insurance policy.

According to the National Flood Insurance Program's FloodSmart campaign, 20-25 percent of all flood insurance claims come from low-to moderate-risk areas. Other informational resources that are available are 1-888-Flood53, www.fema.gov, or your local insurance agent.

Water from spring thaw that occurs in the valley this year carries along with it not only cluttered debris, but a reminder that the affects of flooding are a local concern. The time to prepare yourself, your families and your investments against flooding is now.

Lindsey Erickson is the director of quality assurance and training at National Flood Services in Kalispell.