Flood Safety

Knowing what to do before, during, and after a flood can greatly increase your chances of survival and help you better protect your property. The following information was gathered from the National Weather Service and the Red Cross and will help you accumulate knowledge and tips to get prepared, should you find yourself in a flooding emergency.

The Four Types of Warnings and Watches

Flood/Flash Flood Warning = Take Action!

This is issued when a flood or flash flood is already occurring or will soon. Immediately move to high ground if you are in a flood prone area. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take anywhere from minutes to hours to develop. Even if you are not immediately seeing rain, you can still experience a flash flood.

Flood/Flash Flood Watch = Be Prepared

This is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not guarantee that flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Flood Advisory = Be Aware

This is issued when flood is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause damage if caution is not exercised and could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property.

Before Flooding

While floods can develop slowly, they also can occur within minutes, sometimes, without any sign of rain. The key before a flood is to take time to get prepared.

Key Tips:

- Create an emergency kit.

- Develop an evacuation plan that includes your pets.

- Sign up for notifications.

- Discuss communication options with each family member, should you get separated during an emergency.

- If a flood is coming, right before, it is important to listen to the local news for updates and information, find a local emergency shetler in case of evacuation, and double check you emergency kit for anything you missed or need to refill. Add any medications or medical supplies that aren't in there.

During Flooding

It’s important to know that during a flood, the level of the water and the rate at which it’s flowing can change rapidly. Stay aware, monitor local news outlets, and avoid flood waters. When water starts to rise, immediately evacuate. Never wait around.

- Stay informed through local news outlets.

- Get to higher ground and avoid flood waters.

- Follow evacuation orders.

- Be aware of electrical hazards.

- If instructed by local authorities, turn off the power and water mains.

After Flooding

When flood waters abate, the damage left can not only be devastating, but dangerous as well. It's crucial to keep in mind that flood waters can often become contaminated with sewage or chemicals.

- Continue to stay informed by listening to local news outlets on the radio, tv or through your phone.

- Avoid flood waters as well as disaster areas.

- Follow all 'Road Closed' and 'Caution' signage.

- If you evacuated, do not return until authorities deem safe to do so.

- Reach out to family and loved ones to let them know you are safe.