Fall is officially here and so is the rain. If you're in an area that's susceptible to flooding, now's the time to prepare. One good flood could cause considerable damage to your home. If you're like most people, you haven't taken the steps to get ready for the potential damage. If that's the case, you still have time before the next big storm rolls through town. Here are four steps you can take to prepare for flooding. 

Start by Gathering Your Supplies

If you're located in a flood zone, it's just a matter of time before your home sustains water damage. Because of that risk, it's important that you take the time to gather the supplies you'll need to have on hand before the water starts to rise. First and foremost, you need to have a good supply of sandbags on hand. The sandbags will help to reduce the amount of water damage that your home sustains. You should also have at least two shop vacs on hand. You can use the shop vacs to start pumping out the water once the flooding stops. 

Understand Watch and Warning

When you live in a flood zone, it's important that you understand the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning. Understanding the difference will help you know when it's time to take action. A flood watch means that the conditions are favorable for flooding. A flood warning means that flooding is likely to occur. When you receive a flood warning, you need to be prepared for the water and for the potential damage. 

Protect Your Important Papers

If your area has been issued a flood warning, you know that there's a good chance that your home is going to sustain some water damage, especially if you live in a flood zone. Because of that, it's important that you take steps to protect your important papers. You won't have time to protect your personal belongings, but they can be repaired and replaced during the restoration process. However, you can protect your important papers by placing them in an airtight plastic container as soon as possible. Not only will your papers be protected from water damage, but you'll be able to bring them with you should an evacuation be ordered. 

Hire a Restoration Service

Finally, if your home is damaged during a flood, you need to hire a repair and restoration service as soon as possible. The faster the restoration process begins, the sooner you'll be able to get your life back to normal. Not only that but getting started on the water cleanup quickly will help to reduce additional damage such as mold growth and wood rot. 

Contact a local water damage restoration service to get more tips.