Flood preparation
Some basic steps to prepare in case of a storm are mentioned next:
Get in touch with the local county geologist or planning department to learn if your area is prone to flooding or landslides.
Learn about emergency plans in your community, warning signals, evacuation routes and emergency shelter locations.
Establish and practice an evacuation route with your family in case of a flood. Ask a family or friend living outside of your state to be "the family’s point of contact", in case your family is separated during the flood. Make sure that everyone in the family knows the name, address and telephone number of the contact person.
Place emergency numbers near the phones in a visible place.
Inform local authorities about any special needs, such as elderly, bedridden or handicapped people.
Identify any item that poses a risk at the house and learn how to secure or protect it before the flood. Be prepared to shut down electrical power in case of stagnant water, downed power lines, or do it before evacuating. Shut off gas and water feeds before evacuating the area. Fasten any construction material that is not secure.
Buy a fire extinguisher and make sure your family knows its location and how to use it.
Purchase and install sump pumps with a power reserve.
Have a professional electrical elevate the outlets at least 12 inches (30 cm) above the estimated flood level for your home.
Install “retention valves” at the sewer traps to prevent flood water from receding to the drains of your home.
Secure fuel tanks that might contaminate your basement in case they became loose. If a tank is not secured properly, it may be dragged by the current and damage other homes.
In case of a flood warning or alert:
Gather emergency supplies previously stored in your home and keep your radio tuned into a local radio or television station to receive last minute information.
If an evacuation seems likely, shut down the main switch of every utility and close the main gas valves.
Have your vaccine card handy or find out when your last tetanus shot was, in case you are wounded or your wound is contaminated during or after the flood.
Fill the bathtub, sinks and plastic soda bottles with clean water. Disinfect the sinks and bathtubs with chlorine before using them. Rinse and then fill them with clean water.
Move your outdoor belongings such as patio furniture, grills and garbage bins inside the house or secure them.
