FLOOD FACTS & SAFETY TIPS
Most communities in the United States can experience some kind
of flooding after spring rains, heavy thunderstorms or winter snow
thaws. Floods can be slow or fast rising, but generally develop
over a period of days. Flash floods usually result from intense
storms dropping large amounts of rain within a brief period. Flash
flooding can occur with little or no warning and can reach its peak
in only a few minutes.
Emergency Information
Floodwaters can be extremely dangerous. The force of six inches
of swiftly moving water can knock an adult person off his or her
feet. The best protection during a flood is to leave the area and
seek shelter on higher ground.
Flash flood waters move very quickly and can roll boulders, tear
out trees, destroy buildings and obliterate bridges. Walls of water
can reach heights of 10 to 20 feet and generally are accompanied
by a deadly cargo of debris. The best response to any signs of flash
flooding is to move immediately and quickly to higher ground.
Just two feet of moving water can float and carry away most vehicles,
including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pickup trucks. You can
protect yourself best by being prepared and having time to act.
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Before a Flood
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- Consider installing check valves in building sewer traps
to prevent flood waters from backing up in sewer drains.
- Plan and practice an evacuation route.
- Have disaster supplies on hand.
- Develop an emergency communication plan.
- Make sure all family members know how to respond in case
of a flood.
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During a Flood Watch
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- Listen to a radio or television for the latest storm information.
- Fill the bathtub, sinks and jugs with clean water in case
water becomes contaminated.
- Move valuable household possessions to upper floors or
to safe grounds if time permits.
- If you are instructed by local authorities, turn off
all utilities at the main power switch and close the main
gas valve.
- Be prepared to evacuate.
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FLOOD SAFETY
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During a Flood Warning
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- If indoors, turn on a battery-powered radio or NOAA Weather
Radio to get the latest emergency information. If your area
is advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
- If outdoors, climb to high ground and stay there. Avoid
walking through any floodwaters.
- If you are driving and have come to a flooded area, turn
around and go the other way. Many deaths have resulted from
attempts to drive through flooded roadways.
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ADDITIONAL FLOOD SAFETY TIPS
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Evacuate areas that are subject to flooding.
This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc.
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If driving, be aware that the road bed
may not be intact under flood waters. Turn around and
go another way. NEVER drive through flooded roads
or low water crossings. Rapidly rising waters may engulf
the vehicle and sweep it away.
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If camping, choose camp sites along waterways
with care. Remember that storms that are miles away could
bring raging water your way.
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During an Evacuation
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- If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
- Evacuation is much simpler and safer before floodwaters
block your escape. Leave early enough to avoid being marooned
by flooded roads.
- Never attempt to drive or walk through flood waters.
Water could be deeper than it appears and floodwater currents
can be deceptive. Remember, it only takes two feet of water
to carry away most vehicles.
- Listen to a battery-operated radio or TV for evacuation
instructions.
- Follow recommended evacuation routes. Shortcuts may be
blocked.
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After a Flood
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- Flood dangers do not end when the water begins to recede.
Listen to a radio or television and do not return home until
authorities indicate it is safe.
- Remember to help those who may require special assistance:
infants, young children, the elderly and people with disabilities.
- Before entering a flood-damaged building, check the foundation
for cracks and inspect porch roofs and overhangs to be sure
they are adequately supported. Ask a building inspector
to check the house before you go inside.
- Be alert for gas leaks. Do not strike a match or use
open flame when entering a building unless you know the
gas has been turned off and the area ventilated.
- Do not use appliances or motors that have gotten wet
unless they have been taken apart, cleaned and dried.
- For more information on floods or flood safety, contact
your state or local emergency management agency; the Ohio
Department of Natural Resources, Division of Water; the
National Weather Service; or your local American Red Cross
chapter.
See www.floodsmart.gov, www.ohioinsurance.org/pdf/flood.pdf,
www.disastereducation.org/guide.html, www.dnr.state.oh.us/water/floodpln/default.htm,
or www.fema.gov/hazards/flood/ for additional information.
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Ohio Committee for Severe Weather Awareness
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