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Knowing What To Do In A Flood Disaster

In the event of a flood natural disaster, you should know what to do.  Acting quickly could mean the difference in life or death for you and your loved ones.  A few basic tips:

Make sure you are covered with flood insurance.  Flooding is not covered by your homeowners’ policy; inquire about the National Flood Insurance Program.

Use a weather radio or portable battery powered radio to keep up to date on rapidly changing weather conditions.

If you live in a flood prone area, be aware of your surroundings and ready to leave at a moment’s notice if a flood watch is issued.

Develop and evacuation plan, and make sure everybody knows where to go in case you get separated.  At the risk of insulting anyone’s intelligence, make sure the evacuation route leads to higher ground.

If you come upon flood waters, turn around and go the other way.  Under no circumstances should you enter the flood waters.  Six inches of water is enough to sweep a grown man off his feet, and two feet will move a car.

If your car is suddenly surrounded by flood waters, abandon it immediately and move to higher ground.  Use the window to get out, as the door may not open.  If you cannot open a window, let the car fill with water; the pressure will equalize and you should be able to open the door.

Avoid flooded areas…the waters may still be rising and you could be caught unawares very easily.

Stay away from stream and creek banks during flood conditions….soaked banks are unstable and could collapse into the raging waters.