Flood Preparation

Before a Flood
To prepare for a flood, you should:

• Elevate your water heater, furnace, and electrical panel if susceptible to flooding


• Install backflow devices 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

During a Flood
If a flood is likely in your area, you should:

• Listen to the radio or television for information.


• Develop and maintain an emergency preparedness kit that will get you through the first 72 hours of an event. Emergency supplies should be gathered in a portable and flood/rodent-proof container with food, water, safety and hygiene supplies for all family members and pets.


• Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.


• Be aware of streams, drainage channels, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain.

If you have to leave your home, even if only running to the grocery store, remember these tips:

• Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. if you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.


• Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away.

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following:

• Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.


• Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in the water.
  

After a Flood
The following are guidelines for the period following a flood:

• Listen for news reports to learn whether the community's water supply is safe to drink.


• Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.


• Avoid moving water.


• Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.


• Stay away from downed power lines, and report them to the power company.


• Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations. Service damaged septic tanks, damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards. Clean and disinfect everything that got wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.