FLOODS
What Protective Measures Do
I Need To Take For Floods?
What Causes Flooding?
Because of the low land elevations and the high
water tables over much of our area, flooding is likely to occur in some areas
during summer showers and thunderstorms.
A storm with a considerable amount of water volume in a short period of
time will cause flooding in low-lying areas throughout the county even though
the canal network and drainage ditches will alleviate some flooding.
Protective measures that need to be taken are broken down into four
stages:
Preparatory Flood
Warning
Flood Warning
During the Flood
After the Flood
Preparatory Stage
v
Keep a stock of food that requires no cooking.
v
Keep a first aid kit available.
v
Keep your vehicle fueled.
v
Consider purchasing flood insurance for
your home and belongings (Check the insurance
section of this guide for further information).
v
Turn to radio or television or NOAA Weather Radio for flood warnings.
v
Obey warnings from emergency officials; evacuate when notice is issued.
v
Know your evacuation zone and route to a place of safety.
v
Know what supplies to take with you.
v
Shut off electricity and water to your home prior to leaving.
v
Be cautious and avoid flood prone areas when evacuating.
Take These Steps to Reduce
Property Losses.
·
Move outdoor furniture and carry downstairs furniture to upper floors
or higher locations.
·
Sandbags can help slow down flood waters from reaching your
possessions.
·
Retrofitting, such as building floodwalls or elevating a structure is a
way of minimizing loss due to flooding.
Know what your current insurance policy does and does not cover! Coverage may be subject to change with certain improvements to your home and may require adherence to certain regulations.
Flood Warning Stage
o
Store drinking water in sterile, covered containers.
o
Move valuable
objects higher. Place them on shelves,
tables and countertops.
o
Turn off
electricity.
During The Flood Stage
Ø Stay on higher ground.
Ø Do not drive on a flooded
road.
Ø If your vehicle stalls, abandon
it immediately and seek higher ground.
Ø Don’t attempt to wade across
a flowing stream that is above your knees.
Ø Don’t allow children to play
in standing water. It may be
contaminated with chemicals or sewage.
After
The Flood Stage
Do not eat fresh food that
has come into contact with floodwater.
Drink only bottled or
previously stored water.
Stay away from disaster
areas. You may hamper rescue recovery
operations.
Do not handle live
electrical equipment.
Report downed power lines to the local law enforcement authorities.
Keep tuned to local radio
and television stations for instructions on how to obtain medical care and
emergency assistance such as water, food, clothing, shelter and updated weather
reports and conditions.