Safety Tips while Flooding

Here are some of the safety Tips while Flooding: 

Before the Disaster

• Learn warning signs and community alert systems

• Stockpile emergency building materials

• Install check valves in sewer traps to prevent flood waters from backing up in sewer drains

• Plan and practice an evacuation route

• Have disaster supplies on hand

• Develop an emergency communication plan in case of separation

• Ask an out-of-state relative to serve as the "family contact"

• Teach family members how and when to turn off the gas, electricity, and water and teach children how and when to call 9-1-1

• Ask your insurance agent about flood insurance

During the Disaster

During a flood watch:

If indoors:

• Turn on battery operated radio to get latest emergency information
• Get pre-assembled emergency supplies
• If told to leave, do so immediately.

If outdoors:

• Climb to high ground and stay there
• Avoid walking through any floodwaters. 
• If in a car, turn around and go another way; if your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.

During an evacuation:

• If advised to evacuate, do so immediately to avoid flooded roads, being sure to follow recommended evacuation routes and listen to radio for evacuation instructions

After the Disaster

• Don't return home until authorities express express it is safe to do so

• Help neighbors whom may need assistance

• Use extreme caution when entering buildings

• Inspect foundations for cracks or other damage and examine walls, floors, doors, and windows to make sure that the building is not in danger of collapsing

• Watch out for animals, especially poisonous snakes, that may have come into your home with flood waters

• Watch for loose plaster and ceilings that could fall

• Take pictures of damage for insurance claims

• Look for fire hazards

• Throw away all food (including canned) that has come in contact with flood waters

• Pump out flooded basements gradually (~ 1/3 amount of water per day) to avoid structural damage

• Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems ASAP - damaged sewage systems are health hazards.

Source:ProQuest