Floods

Did you know:

• Floods kill more people in the United States than any other natural disaster.
• Most natural disasters involve flooding.
• 25 percent of flooding occurs in areas with low to moderate flood risks.
• Property damage from flooding now totals more than $1 billion each year in the U.S.

Take flood precautions.

Before a flood:

• Be aware of weather conditions that could prompt flooding.
• Listen to radio or TV broadcasts for emergency information and evacuate immediately if told to do so.
• Collect emergency building supplies -- plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber, hammer, nails, saw, pry bar, shovels and sandbags.
• Purchase a weather alert radio.
• Organize an evacuation plan and establish an emergency meeting place should your family get separated.
• Learn how to shut off all utilities.
• Secure shelves and water heaters to nearby walls.
• Raise electrical system components.
• Consider installing check valves in your plumbing to prevent floodwater backup.
• Park, lock and leave vehicles at a higher elevation.

During the flood:

• Never walk or drive through rushing floodwaters. Even six inches of moving water is dangerous.
• Avoid rising waters, storm drains and sewers. Move to higher ground.
• Watch out for snakes and small animals that might seek shelter in your home.
• Never enter buildings surrounded by floodwaters.
• Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires.