Floods Previous Page Home Page
Before a Flood
- Keep alert for signs of heavy rain and watch for rising water levels.
- Know the elevation of your property in relation to flood plains, streams, and other waterways.
- Determine if your property may be flooded.
- Plan what to do and where to go in case of a flood.
- Store food, water, and critical medical supplies.
- Fill your car with gas in case you have to evacuate.
- Move furniture and essential items to higher elevation, if time permits.
- Have a portable radio with extra batteries.
- Have a flashlight and extra batteries.
- Open basement windows to equalize water pressure on foundations and walls.
- Secure your home.
- Consider flood and earthquake insurance.
Evacuation
- Listen to local radio or television for weather information.
- If asked to evacuate, shut off main power switch, main gas valve, and water valve. Follow local evacuation evacuation plan and routes.
- Do not attempt to cross a stream on foot where water is above your knees.
- Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road -- it may be washed out. While on the road, watch for possible flooding or bridges, dips, and low areas.
- Watch out for damaged roads, slides, and fallen wires.
- Drive slowly in water and use low gear.
- Abandon your vehicle immediately if it stalls; seek higher ground.
- It only takes two feet of running water to move a vehicle.
- Register at your designated evacuation center and remain there until informed you may leave.
- If the vehicle stalls, abandon it and seek higher ground immediately.
During the Flood
- Know where high ground is and get there quickly before water rises.
- Be especially cautious at night as it is harder to recognize the danger then.
After the Flood
- Remain away from the evacuated area until public health officials and building inspectors have given approval for your return.
- Check for structural damage before entering.
- Make sure electricity is off and watch for electrical wires.
- Do not use open flame as a light source because of the possibility of escaping gas. Use flashlights. Beware of dangerous sparks.
- Test drinking water for suitability with test kits.
- Avoid walking in flood water.
- Do not let children play in flood water.
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