Floods often happen when bodies of water overflow or tides rise due to heavy rainfall or thawing snow. But you don't have to live near water to be at risk of flooding. A flash flood, which can strike anywhere without warning when a large volume of rain falls within a short time.

One of the first things to do is find out what your flood zone status is. Flood zones are land areas identified by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Each flood zone describes that land area in terms of its risk of flooding. Everyone lives in a flood zone -- it's just a question of whether you live in a low-, moderate- or high-risk area.

You can access your flood risk by entering your property address on the Floodsmart web site.

If you live in a high to mid risk area, you might consider getting flood insurance. Dangerous or damaging floods don't always mean dramatic, rushing waters through the streets of your hometown. Even small amounts of water can cause damage to your home and possessions.

Here a short list of ways you can prepare for a flood.

• Take photos or video of all your important possessions.
• Store important documents and irreplaceable personal objects (such as photos) in a safe place.
• Post emergency numbers by the phone. Teach children to dial 911.
• Plan and practice a flood evacuation route with your family.
• Designate an out of state relative or friend to be a contact in case your family gets separated during a flood.
• If your home is in a serious flood zone, consider hiring a licensed electrician to raise electric components, and elevate your washer, dryer, water heater, and furnace on masonry blocks at least 12” above the projected flood elevation.

Take the time to prepare, you could save your family thousands of dollars.