Gloucester residents currently enjoy a 20 percent discount on National Flood Insurance Plan policies thanks to the county’s efforts in the Community Rating System, according to an announcement made Monday by the county’s Department of Community Engagement and Public Information, the first day of the observance of Virginia Flood Awareness Week.

A major part of the ability of residents to get discounted rates is by encouraging them to be prepared before a flood event occurs. “First and foremost, it is extremely important for folks to determine the flood zone they reside in,” said George Bains, Gloucester’s Deputy County Administrator.

This can be done easily by visiting www.vaemergency.gov and inputting your address into the interactive map. “This way, when an evacuation is ordered based on these zones, you will know if you need to take the steps to leave your residence,” Bains added. Next, it is extremely important to make sure you have a flood insurance policy, even if you’re ou...