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How to prepare for floods

Florida's east coast may not seem like a flood-prone region these days, but there have been times in the not-so-distant past when whole neighborhoods in this area have been underwater from hurricane rains or summer thunderstorms.
100-year floodplain map

So, it pays to be prepared. You should:

• Find out if you live in a flood-prone area from your local emergency management office or Red Cross chapter.
• Ask whether your property is above or below the flood stage water level and learn about the history of flooding for your region.
• Learn flood warning signs and your community alert signals.
• Request information on preparing for floods and flash floods.
• If you live in a frequently flooded area, stockpile emergency building materials. These include plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber nails, hammer and saw, pry bar, shovels, and sandbags.
• Have check valves installed in building sewer traps to prevent flood waters from backing up in sewer drains.
• Raise Electrical Boxes, Major Appliances, and HVAC components at least one-foot above the 100-year flood level.
• Anchor fuel tanks – When floodwaters move an unanchored tank, the supply line may tear. Additionally, filling and ventilation tubes need to be above flood level so that water cannot get inside the tank. Anchor inside and outside tanks with properly sized ground anchors. For safety's sake, consult local officials and building professionals about the best methods for anchoring fuel tanks.
• As a last resort, use large corks or stoppers to plug showers, tubs, or basins.
• Plan and practice an evacuation route.

Contact the local emergency management office or local American Red Cross chapter for a copy of the community flood evacuation plan. This plan should include information on the safest routes to shelters. Individuals living in flash flood areas should have several alternative routes.
Red Cross preparation tips

 Supplies
Have disaster supplies on hand, including:

• Flashlights and extra batteries.
• Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries.
• First aid kit and manual.
• Emergency food and water.
• Non-electric can opener.
• Essential medicines.
• Cash and credit cards.
• Sturdy shoes.

Have a plan
Every family should have an emergency communication plan. In case family members are separated from one another during floods or flashfloods (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children are at school), have a plan for getting back together.

• Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact." After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address, and phone number of the contact person.
• Teach all family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity, and water.
• Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1, police, fire department, and which radio station to tune to for emergency information.

A flood watch
If you are in an area where a flood watch has been declared, you should take these steps:

• Listen to a batter-operated radio for the latest storm information.
• Fill bathtubs, sinks, and jugs with clean water in case water becomes contaminated.
• Bring outdoor belongings, such as patio furniture, indoors.
• Move valuable household possessions to the upper floors or to safe ground if time permits.
• Be prepared to evacuate.

During a flood
If you are indoors:

• Listen to the radio for information.
• Get your 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 it is moving swiftly, even water 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet.

If In a Car:

• If you come to a flooded area, turn around and go another way.
• If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground. Many deaths have resulted from attempts to move stalled vehicles.

After the flood
Flood dangers do not end when the water begins to recede. Listen to a radio or television and don't return home until authorities indicate it is safe to do so.
Remember to help your neighbors who may require special assistance - infants, elderly people, and people with disabilities.
Stay out of buildings if flood waters remain around the building. When entering buildings, use extreme caution. You should:

• Wear sturdy shoes and use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights when examining buildings.
• 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 the flood waters. Use a stick to poke through debris.
• Check for fire hazards, including broken or leaking gas lines, flooded electrical circuits, submerged furnaces or electrical appliances and flammable or explosive materials coming from upstream.

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