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Flooding & Safety
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Flood safety advice: Before, During, After

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Before a Flood

Additional Resources for Protecting Your Property:

During a Flood

  • Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If a flood is imminent, avoid low-lying areas and seek shelter in the highest spot possible.

  • If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. If you are at work or school, follow the established safety protocols. Evacuation is safer and easier before floodwaters become too deep. For more information, see www.ready.gov/evacuation.
     
  • Moving water is dangerous. Six inches of moving water can cause a person to stumble or fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where it is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you and aid in balance.
     
  • Understand shallow flooding risks – don’t drive through standing water. Turn Around Don’t Drown® — If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground. A foot of water will cause many vehicles to float. Two feet of rushing water can carry most vehicles water can carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and pick-ups.

After a Flood

  • Listen for news reports on whether the community's water supply is safe to drink.

  • Never walk, swim, drive, or play in floodwater. Oil, gasoline or raw sewage may have contaminated the water. Underground or downed power lines may also have electrically charged the water.
     
  • Please stay away from downed power lines and report them to your power company. Do not attempt to turn on a gas meter if the service is disconnected. Contact your utility and or your local police department.
  • Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.

  • Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are serious health hazards.
     
  • Clean and disinfect everything wet. Mud left from floodwater can contain sewage and chemicals.
     
  • Any repairs or improvements greater than 50 percent of a structure’s value need to meet National Flood Insurance Program requirements.