FLOODS

BEFORE
* Know your area’s flood risks. Be aware of the water table. If yours is an area that
could flood, check on flood insurance availability.
* Avoid building in a flood prone area unless you elevate and reinforce your home.
* Install “Check valves: in sewer traps to prevent floodwater from backing up into the
drains of your home.
* Seal the walls in your basement with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage.
* Elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel if susceptible to flooding.
* Keep insurance policies, documents, family pictures, and valuables in a safe-deposit
box. Keep copies available.
* Build storage units off the floor and away from walls.
* Prepare a family evacuation plan.
* Know where and how to turn off utilities.
* Keep a portable radio, flashlight, batteries, first aid kit, canned food, and bottled
water on hand.
* Fill car’s gas tank with gasoline.

A FLOOD WATCH (Flooding is possible):
* Tune into NOAA Weather Radio or listen to local radio and TV stations for vital
information.
* Move furniture and valuables to higher ground. Include cleaning materials.
* Sand bag your home from flood-approach side. Tie down equipment outside the home
or bring it inside.
* Turn off utilities if your home is likely to be flooded.
* Evacuate if you are told to do so.

DURING A FLOOD:
* A FLASH FLOOD WARNING: Means you have only seconds to escape. Leave low-lying
areas immediately on foot.
* If driving in a canyon, get out of your car and seek higher ground immediately.
* DO NOT WALK OR DRIVE THROUGH FLOOD WATERS. Bridges and roads may be
out. Your car can easily be swept away by what appears to be a small stream of
water. Six inches of water will stall most vehicles.
* Avoid contact with flood water; it is highly contaminated.
* Stay on safe high ground until danger is past.
* Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

AFTER A FLOOD:
* Return to your home only when told it is safe to do so.
* Watch for downed electrical lines and weakened structure in your home.
* Disinfect or discard everything touched by the flood water.