Floods

In the event of a flood, move quickly to higher ground. Water rushing at you in a flood can knock you off your feet! If you’re in your car and water comes up around you, get out and move to higher ground right away. Cars can be swept away in just two feet of moving water.

Before a Flood

• Prepare an emergency kit.
• Find out if you are in a flood zone.
• If feasible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds.
• Ask your homeowner's insurance agent if you are covered for floods. Most homeowner's policies do not cover flooding.
• If flooding is in the forecast, keep your gas tank at least half full in case you need to evacuate.

During a Flood

• Listen to your local news or radio for the latest weather conditions.
• Do not drive through flooded roadways.
• Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
• Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams, rivers or creeks, particularly during threatening conditions.

After a Flood

• Do not eat or drink anything that has come in contact with flood water. Remove all spoiled food from your refrigerator.
• Clean and have electrical equipment checked by a professional before using.
• Check for damp drywall that could cause mold and clean accordingly.
• Remember, floodwaters sometimes take days to rise, even when the sun is shining. It can take days for floodwaters to make their way downstream. Don't underestimate the power and speed in which floodwaters can rise and destroy everything in their path.