Local flooding can happen in most parts of the country at almost any time of the year.

When it hits, the property damage can be devastating. But, there are some things you can do to prepare before the next deluge:

Check your gutters and your downspouts. Make sure they are secure and cleared of all debris, so they can get the water away from your house.

Inspect your sump pump. Make sure it's not blocked with debris.

Make sure all of your floor drains are cleared.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency recommends you take pictures of valuable possessions and store important documents where they can't be damaged.

If you have time, you should place the furnace and water heater on masonry blocks or concrete to get them off the floor.

You can also install a flood alarm. It costs about $15 and can alert you if your home begins to take on water.

The National Weather Service offers the following general safety rules when possible flooding is in the forecast:

Preparations at home and work:

• Determine if you are in a flood-prone area. If you are, know where to go if the water starts to rise. Have an escape route if you have to leave quickly.
• Make a safety kit containing: A flashlight and extra batteries, battery-powered weather radio receiver and commercial radio, extra food and water, first-aid supplies, canned food and a can opener, water (three gallons per person), extra clothing, and bedding. Don’t forget special items for family members such as diapers, baby formula, prescription or essential medications, extra eyeglasses or hearing aids, and pet supplies.
• Know how and when to shut off utilities: Electricity, gas, and water.
• Know the name of the county where you live and nearby rivers and streams. Keep a map so you know where storms that may cause flash flooding are.
• Find out how to get local warning information, such as outdoor warning sirens or cable TV override systems.

When traveling or outdoors:

• Keep track of the counties, towns, rivers, and creeks along and near your route, so you will know if you are near a flood.
• Take a weather radio with you wherever you go.
• Check the weather forecast before a trip or outdoor activity. Postpone your plans if flooding is forecast.
• Choose campsites AWAY from creeks and other low-lying areas.
• Be especially cautious at night, when dangerous rising water is more difficult to detect.

Flash Flood Safety

• If a flash flood warning is issued, get to higher ground immediately! Follow evacuation instructions, but don't wait for them if you think you are in danger.
• Do not drive across flooded roads or bridges–they may be washed out.
• If your vehicle stalls in water, abandon it and get to higher ground. It takes only a foot or two of rapidly-moving water to sweep away a car.
• Walking or playing around flood waters is dangerous; you can be knocked from your feet in water only six inches deep!

Flood Insurance

But despite preparing for a flood, homeowners can still experience damage from rising water. That's why the most important thing you can do to be ready for high water is to buy flood insurance.

"We recommend that all property owners purchase and keep flood insurance because it is the best means of recovery from flood damage," advises the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Web site.

According to FEMA, flood insurance is available to any property owner located in a community participating in the National Flood Insurance Program. The agency says all areas are susceptible to flooding, although to varying degrees; that in fact, 25% of all flood claims occur in the low-to-moderate risk areas.

Flooding can be caused by heavy rains, melting snow, by inadequate drainage systems, failed protective devices such as levees and dams, as well as by tropical storms and hurricanes.

Flood insurance is not only a good investment for homeowners, FEMA says it also benefits taxpayers by reducing the need for federal assistance after a flood. According to FEMA's flood insurance Web site, every $3 paid out in flood insurance claims saves $1 in disaster assistance payments.