Floodplain Management

Flood Safety

It is important for residents to know and understand their flood hazard risk. Inland flooding is a leading cause of weather-related death in the United States. Start by identifying the flood zone for your neighborhood and business. Some areas are in repetitive flood prone areas. Be better prepared by taking time to understand the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning, establishing family emergency plans well in advance of inclement weather, and having a disaster supply kit ready in case there is a need to evacuate.

Tips

When faced with flooding remember the following tips:

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
Do not attempt to walk across flowing streams.
Know your evacuation routes before flooding occurs.
Monitor your National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio for current and forecasted conditions in your area. Listen for instructions from local emergency management teams.
When faced with standing water over a roadway remember: "Turn around, don’t drown."

Flood Insurance

Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides homeowners with protection from financial loss caused by a flooding event. Flooding can include ponding in streets and low-lying areas, storm surge, and river flooding. Depending on the location of your property your home is either high-risk or moderate-to-low-risk for a flood. Insurance premiums will vary according to your risk.

Understand your flood insurance needs by speaking with an insurance professional. Communities which participate in the National Flood Insurance Program, such as Titusville, are eligible to purchase flood insurance even if you are located outside the floodplain. A low-cost Preferred Risk Policy is available to properties located outside the special flood hazard area.

Flood Mitigation

Mitigation is the effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impact of disasters. Taking action now, before the next disaster, can reduce the loss of life and property.

Reduce Development in Flood Prone Areas

The most sustainable way to reduce flood risk is to prevent further development in flood prone areas. Land development regulations such as zoning can be used to steer development away from these areas.

Build responsibly by getting permits before you build and working only with licensed contractors. Homes which are damaged beyond 50% of their value are required to meet current building and floodplain standards when they are repaired.

Only Rain Down the Drain

It is also important for residents not to dump grass or other foreign debris into storm drains, remember "Only Rain Down the Drain". A blocked storm drain can cause unnecessary flooding.

More Information

The following agencies can provide more information.

Brevard County Emergency Management
Florida Division of Emergency Management
Florida Division of Emergency Management
National Flood Insurance Program