St. Johns County residents have a new tool to help them navigate the waters of flood preparation and safety: the Flood Smart Brochure. Given the unforeseen nature of floods, which can swiftly arise with scant warning, staying ahead of the game is essential. Residents are encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts to receive up-to-date information on potential flooding events, a measure that St. Johns County officials urge should not be delayed, as reported by St. Johns County.
To further bolster preparation efforts, the county has provided the helpful Flood Zone Viewer, a tool designed to quickly tell homeowners of their flood risk with a simple address input. According to the same source, knowing where your home stands on the floodplain is a critical step to ensure readiness. With risks identified, securing appropriate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) becomes paramount. The County reminds that typical homeowner policies do not cover flood damage, and with a significant 30-day waiting period before policies take effect, timeliness becomes all the more critical.
Flood safety measures get extra spotlight in the guide, underlying the dangers posed by moving water and flooded roadways. "The majority of flood-related drownings occur in vehicles," warns the St. Johns County, advising residents to never attempt to drive through flooded areas or around barriers. This tidbit, among others, emphasizes the lethal risks floods pose. Additionally, the guide encourages residents to maintain natural floodplain functions by reporting any illegal dumping or disruptive activities, as these can hinder the land's ability to manage floods effectively.
Homeowners aren't left without guidance for protecting their properties either. The guide suggests elevation for homes particularly susceptible to floods and recommends installing barriers or employing sandbags. St. Johns County provides instructions to "ensure proper drainage" by keeping waterways clear—a preventative step to strategically direct water flow during torrential rains. For any construction plans within a floodplain, the County insists on following regulations, and suggests residents to always seek properly licensed contractors and the necessary permits to ensure compliance with both federal and local requirements.
Fulfilling its role as an informational hub, St. Johns County extends a myriad of resources to its residents. These include its Floodplain Fact page, the Flood Smart Brochure, and the SJC Emergency Management resources among others. All are designed to help residents to stay informed, prepare in advance, and most importantly, ensure safety for themselves and their property during flooding. "Don't wait until it's too late," the St. Johns County appeals, urging immediate action toward flood preparedness.
