Floodplain Maps: Protecting Your Home from Floods
What is a Floodplain Map?
Floodplain maps, also known as Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs), are interactive maps that display areas near major streams that have a high risk of flooding. These maps are designed to help homeowners and businesses understand their flood risk and take steps to reduce it.
How to Use Floodplain Maps
To use a floodplain map, enter your address or part of your address into the search bar and click "GO." The map will zoom in to show your property and the surrounding area. The map will also show the current status of all active flood insurance studies in your state.
If your property is located in a high-risk flood area, you may be required to purchase flood insurance. Flood insurance can help protect you from financial losses if your property is damaged by a flood.
How to Reduce Your Flood Risk
There are a number of things you can do to reduce your flood risk, including:
- Elevate your home
- Install flood vents
- Build a flood wall
- Move your valuables to higher ground
By taking these steps, you can help protect your home and family from the devastating effects of flooding.
Additional Resources
For more information on floodplain maps and flood insurance, please visit the following websites:
Comments