Floods

Floods occur regularly across the country, causing evacuations, widespread damage and even death. Those living near waterways or other low-lying areas are most at risk, but anyone in a community susceptible to flooding can be affected. Hazards range from potentially deadly flash flooding to water contamination due to broken gasoline or sewer lines.

Before a Flood

• Consider purchasing flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Progaram.  Regular homeowners' insurance does not cover flood losses.
• Know how to get to higher ground from your home.
• Learn your community's flood evacuation routes.
• Ask local officials how you can protect your home.

During a Flood

• Stay tuned to radio or TV for updates.
• Watch for flash flooding. This can occur without rain clouds or rain in the immerdiate area.
• Avoid low-lying areas such as canyons and drainage channels.
• Never walk through moving water more than 6 inches deep.
• Do not drive through flooded areas.
• If your vehicle stalls in water, exit it and move to higher ground.
• Evacuate if instructed to by authorites and return home only when they say it's safe.

After a Flood

• Be careful in areas where floodwaters have receded.
• Watch for downed electrical lines and wakened roads and bridges.
• Stay out of flooded buildings.
• Use caution when entering damaged structures. Their foundations may have weakened.
• Avoid coming into contact with floodwater--it may be contaminated. Wash your hands if they get wet.
• Discard any food that has been in contact with floodwater.