Floods are one of the most common dangers in the United States. However, not all floods are the same. River floods develop slowly, sometime over a few days. Flash floods can develop slowly, sometimes in a few minutes, without visible signals of rain. Flash floods often have a dangerous water wall that drags a deadly load of rocks, mud and other rubble. Land floods happen outside a defined creek or river and can be as destructive as a breaking dam. Floods can also happen when a dam breaks, producing effects similar to flash floods.
Flash flood effects can be very local, affecting a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting the entire riverbanks and several states.
Beware of flood risks, no matter where you live, but especially if you live in low lands, near water or waters near a dam. Even small creeks, ravines, streams, sewers, dry river banks or lowlands that seem immune during dry seasons may flood. Every state is at risk of this danger.
Go to highlands during a flood. Moving water only six inches deep can knock you down.
What to do before a flood
1. Learn the terms used to describe floods:
o Flood watch – Flooding is possible. Keep tuned into NOAA Weather Radio or a commercial radio or television station to receive information. Watch warnings are issued 12 to 36 hours before a possible flooding event.
o Flash flood watch – Flash flooding is possible. Be prepared to move to higher ground. Flash floods might happen without a warning. Keep tuned into NOAA Weather Radio or a commercial radio or television station to receive additional information.
o Flood warning – Flooding is taking place or will happen soon. If you are instructed to leave the area, do it immediately.
o Flash flood warning – Flash flooding is taking place. Seek higher ground on foot immediately.
2. Ask local officials if your property is located in a flood prone or high risk area. (Remember that floods often happen outside of high risk areas.) Ask about official flood warnings and what to do when you hear them. Also ask how you can protect your home during a flood.
3. Identify dams in your area and determine if they are a risk for you.
4. Purchas a NOAA Weather Radio with battery backup and alarm that automatically informs you if a Watch or Warning is issued (the alarm is not available in some areas). Purchase additional batteries and portable battery operated radio.
5. Be prepared to evacuate the area. Learn evacuation routes in case of flooding in your community and where you can find high grounds.
6. Talk to your family about flooding. Plan for a place to meet your family in case you become separated during a disaster and are not able to return home. Choose a contact outside your town who everyone can call to inform you are alright. In some emergencies, calling out of state is possible even if the local phone lines are damaged.
7. Determine how you will take care of family members living elsewhere but that might need your help during a flood. Determine special needs your neighbors may have.
8. Prepare to survive on your own for at least three days. Gather your disaster supply equipment. Keep a food supply and additional drinking water.
9. Learn how to shut off electricity, gas and water at the main switch and valves. Learn where the gas pilots are located and how the heating system works.
10. Consider buying flood insurance.
o Flood loss is not covered under owner insurance policies.
o Flood insurance is available in most communities through insurance brokers.
o There is usually a 30 day waiting period for the new policy to enter into effect, so don’t delay.
o Flood insurance is available whether the building is inside or outside the area identified as flood prone.
11. Consider these options to protect your property:
o Prepare a record of your personal assets. Take pictures or video of your belongings. Store these documents in a safe place.
o Keep insurance policies, deeds, property records and other important documentation in a safe place outside your home.
o Avoid building in alluvial terrains, unless you can elevate and reinforce your home.
o Elevate the heating furnace, water heater and electric switch board to the highest floors or attic if you are susceptible to floods.
o Install “retention valves” at the sewer traps to prevent flood water from receding to the drains of your home.
o Build barriers, such as dams, verges and walls against flooding to prevent the water from entering the building.
o Seal the basement walls with water resistant materials to avoid infiltration.
o Call the building department or local emergency office to get more information.
Have emergency supplies handy. Remember to purchase a NOAA Weather Radio battery operated radio, with alarm features and additional batteries.
