Flood Tips & Facts

• Floods cause more damage nationwide than any other disaster.
• As little as six inches of moving flood water could knock an adult off their feet.
• Each year people drown because they attempt to drive their vehicles over flooded roads. Their vehicles stall and the occupants don't immediately get out and seek higher ground, conditions deteriorate rapidly trapping them inside.
• Programmable NOAA Weather Radios with a battery back-up are inexpensive and can be purchased at most stores selling electronics. Program your county code into your NOAA radio so when the National Weather Service declares a flood "warning" for your area the radio will sound a tone alerting you to the possibility of pending danger.
• A Flood Watch means that flooding is possible. Stay tuned to your NOAA radio or commercial radio or TV for additional information.
• A Flood Warning means flooding is occurring or soon will. If you are ordered to evacuate do so immediately.
• If your home begins to flood move to the upper floors or roof if necessary.
• Do not attempt to swim through flood water.

Before The Flood

• If you live in a flood zone purchase flood insurance. A standard homeowners policy doesn't cover damage caused by floods. There are also policies available for renters. Call your insurance agent for further details. There is usually at least a five day wait for policies to take effect.
• Maintain a list of all your personal property and consider taking pictures or a video. These records are helpful in settling claims and proving uninsured losses.
• Keep your insurance policy and your personal property inventory in a safe place like a safety deposit box.
• If you live in a flood prone area pre-identify places you could relocate to and the safest route to take, in case an evacuation is ordered or becomes necessary.
• Animals are not permitted in Red Cross Mass Care Centers so if you intend on using this service for your family you must make private, pre-arrangements for your animals.
• Make sure your evacuation supply kit is ready to go. Refer to the "Family Plan Template" for a list of the supplies you may need to assemble.
• Make sure your vehicle's fuel tank is full.
• Move valuables out of the basement to upper floors.
• If you are ordered to evacuate turn off all utilities (if time permits and it can be done safely)

After The Flood

• Return home only when authorities say it is safe to do so.
• Check the exterior of the structure for damage before entering it.
• Do not strike a match or enter the structure with a cigarette or any open flame in case there's escaping gas.
• If the structure suffered flood damage do not turn on any utilities until a qualified service person has checked all systems.
• Open windows and doors to circulate air.
• Call your insurance agent.
• Take pictures of the damage.
• Make temporary repairs to protect against further losses.