FLOOD DISASTER PREPAREDNESS

BEFORE A FLOOD

Prepare an emergency kit and make a family communications plan
Avoid building in floodplains, unless structure is elevated and reinforced
Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel
Consider installing “check valves” to prevent floodwater backups
Construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and, seal basement walls with waterproofing compounds

DRIVING TIPS

Six inches of water will stall or cause control issues in most passenger vehicles
A foot of water will float many passenger vehicles
Two feet of rushing water can carry away most passenger vehicles including, SUVs and pick-ups
Never attempt to drive through a flooded road; depth is not always obvious, and the roadbed may be washed away under the surface
Do not drive around barricades
Do not try to take short-cuts, and stick to designated evacuation routes
Avoid driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers