There are various ways you can protect your property from flood damage. For more detailed information, and more flood-related information, go to the Federal Emergency Management Agency website:
Mark your fuse or breaker box to show the circuits serving floodable areas. Turning off the power to these areas before flooding can reduce property damage and save lives.
Turn off the gas prior to coastal storms, as well, to prevent fires if lines rupture during the storm.
Consider elevating your home above flood levels. And remember, there are many variables that impact the cost to elevate, including: condition of your home, type of foundation, elevations of the 100-year flood, the ground, and lowest floor of your home, and other structural elements.
You may also be able to elevate or protect individual components, such as your HVAC unit, ductwork, or plumbing.
Check your structure for water entry points. These can be basement windows, doors, or dryer vents. These openings can be protected with low walls or temporary shields to be installed before flood events. Many of these retrofit projects can be performed by do-it-yourself homeowners in just a short week or weekend and at minimal cost for supplies.
Install a floor drain plug, standpipe, overhead sewer, or sewer backup valve to prevent sewer backup flooding.
Note that some flood protection measures may need a building permit and others may not be safe for your building, so be sure to check with Central Permits Division before beginning retrofit projects.