A flood is nothing to trifle with. High waters can create an astonishing amount of damage. At the same time, it comes with great risk to people’s safety — more so than even the most placid surface would indicate. That’s why it’s important to arm yourself with information and be prepared to keep yourself and your family safe in any flooding event.
What to do before the flood
If your region is prone to flooding, it’s wise to do some preventive maintenance on your home. After filling cracks in your walls and floors, add a coat of waterproofing masonry cement.
If flooding is predicted, one of the first things you should do is prepare an emergency kit for your family and pets. This should include a change of clothing, nonperishable food, clothes, cash, paper maps, emergency phone numbers and at least a week’s supply of medications. Also, have a battery-powered radio with spare batteries along with a power bank for your mobile phones.
Stay tuned to local radio reports and follow instructions from local officials. In the meantime, move valuables, furniture, documents and photographs to a safe place. As for the exterior, make sure gutters and downspouts are clean, and secure outdoor furniture, large plant containers, or any other outdoor items that can float away.
What to do during the flood
If a flood is likely in your area, you should:
Listen to the radio or television for information.
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 stream, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain.
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 water.
What to do after the flood
If your area was evacuated, return only when officials give the all-clear. When you do return home, use utmost care in examining the damage. Don’t use a kerosene lantern or any flame-based light source in the house in case there’s an undetected gas leak. Instead, use a flashlight or a battery-operated lantern.
If you have any tripped breakers, do not turn them back on. This could be a sign of water-damaged wiring. Contact an electrician.
Water is a ready conductor of electricity. If you see downed power lines in or near standing water, do NOT touch the water with your body or even an object. Now’s the time to back away and call the authorities.
If your gas main is turned off, only a professional can restore it. Do not attempt to turn it back on yourself.
Avoid contact with any remaining floodwater, and make sure children and pets keep away. These waters could contain sewage and other contaminants.
When experiencing a flood, be prepared and cautious to keep your family safe.
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