Floods: Inspire others to act by being an example yourself, Pledge to Prepare & tell others about it! community.fema.gov/connect.ti/cfghome/grouphome Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States, however not all floods are alike. Some floods develop slowly, while others such as flash floods, can develop in just a few minutes and without visible signs of rain. Additionally, floods can be local, impacting a neighborhood or community, or very large, affecting entire river basins and multiple states. Flash floods can occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall, a dam or levee failure, or a sudden release of water held by an ice jam. Flash floods often have a dangerous wall of roaring water carrying rocks, mud and other debris. Overland flooding, the most common type of flooding event typically occurs when waterways such as rivers or streams overflow their banks as a result of rainwater or a possible levee breach and cause flooding in surrounding areas. It can also occur when rainfall or snowmelt exceeds the capacity of underground pipes, or the capacity of streets and drains designed to carry flood water away from urban areas. Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live or work, but especially if you are in low-lying areas, near water, behind a levee or downstream from a dam. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, dry streambeds or low-lying ground that appear harmless in dry weather can flood. To prepare for a flood, you should: • Build an emergency kit and make a family communications plan. • Avoid building in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce your home. • Elevate the furnace, water heater and electric panel in your home if you live in an area that has a high flood risk. • Consider installing check valves to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home. • If feasible, construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds. During a Flood If a flood is likely in your area, you should: • Listen to the radio or television for information. • Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move. • Be aware of stream, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain. If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following: • Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor. • Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. After the Flood Your home has been flooded. Although floodwaters may be down in some areas, many dangers still exist. Here are some things to remember in the days ahead: • Use local alerts and warning systems to get information and expert informed advice as soon as available. • Avoid moving water. • Stay away from damaged areas unless your assistance has been specifically requested by police, fire, or relief organization. • Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way. • Play it safe. Additional flooding or flash floods can occur. Listen for local warnings and information. If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, get out immediately and climb to higher ground. • Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe. • Roads may still be closed because they have been damaged or are covered by water. Barricades have been placed for your protection. If you come upon a barricade or a flooded road, go another way. • If you must walk or drive in areas that have been flooded. o Stay on firm ground. Moving water only 6 inches deep can sweep you off your feet. Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines. o Flooding may have caused familiar places to change. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways. Flood debris may hide animals and broken bottles, and its also slippery. Avoid walking or driving through it. • Be aware of areas where floodwaters have receded. Roads may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car. • Stay out of any building if it is surrounded by floodwaters. • Use extreme caution when entering buildings; there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations. Flood Insurance What you should know: • Flood losses are not typically covered under renter and homeowner’s insurance policies. • FEMA manages the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which makes federally-backed flood insurance available in communities that agree to adopt and enforce floodplain management ordinances to reduce future flood damage. • Flood insurance is available in most communities through insurance agents. • There is a 30-day waiting period before flood insurance goes into effect, so don’t delay. • Flood insurance is available whether the building is in or out of an identified flood-prone area. What you can do: • Find out if your home or business is at risk for flood and educate yourself on the impact a flood could have on you and your family. FEMAs Flood Insurance Study compiled statistical data on river flows, storm tides, hydrologic/hydraulic analyses, and rainfall and topographic surveys to create flood hazard maps that outline your communitys different flood risk areas. • Talk to your insurance provider about your policy and determine if you need additional coverage. • Contact the NFIP. They can help provide a means for property owners to financially protect themselves if additional coverage is required. The NFIP offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters, and business owners if their community participates in the NFIP. To find out more about the NFIP visit FloodSmart.gov.
Posted on: Tue, 20 May 2014 15:00:00 +0000