Flood Safety

It's important to know your area's flood risk.  If you're unsure, call your local Red Cross, emergency management office, or planning and zoning department.  Know that if it has been raining hard for several hours, or raining steadily for several days, the possibility of a flood is higher. During these times, listen to local radio or TV stations for flood information, and use the following safety tips:

Reduce Potential Flood Damage By

• Raising your furnace, water heater, and electric panel if they are in areas of your home that may be flooded.
• Consulting with a professional for further information about other damage reduction measures that can be taken.

Be Aware that Floods Can Take Several Hours or Days to Develop

• A flood WATCH means a flood is possible in your area.
• A flood WARNING means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area.

Be Aware that Flash Floods Can Take Only a Few Minutes to a Few Hours to Develop

• A flash flood WATCH means flash flooding is possible in your area.
• A flash flood WARNING means a flash flood is occurring or will occur very soon.

Prepare a Family Disaster Plan

• Check to see if you have insurance that covers flooding.  If not, find out how to get flood insurance.
• Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box.
  
  Identify where you could go if told to evacuate. Choose several places such as a friend's home in another town, a motel, or a shelter.

Assemble a Disaster Supplies Kit Containing:
 

• First aid kit and essential medications
• Canned food and can opener
• At least three gallons of water per person per day
• Protective clothing, rainwear, and bedding or sleeping bags
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries
• Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members
• Written instructions for how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise you to do so (Remember, you'll need a professional to turn them back on.)

When a Flood WATCH Is Issued

• Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home.
• Fill your car's gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued.

When a Flood WARNING Is Issued

• Listen to local radio and TV stations for information and advice.  If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible.

When a Flash Flood WATCH Is Issued

• Be alert to signs of flash flooding, and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice.

When a Flash Flood WARNING Is Issued

• Evacuate immediately. You may have only seconds to escape. Act quickly!
• Move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks, and storm drains. Do not drive around barricades; they are there for your safety.
• If your car stalls in rapidly rising water, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.