Prepare a Family Disaster Plan

• Check to see if you have insurance that covers flooding. If not, find out how to get flood insurance.
• Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box.
• Identify where you could go if told to evacuate. Choose several places such as a friend's home in

FLASH FLOOD WATCH means flash flooding is possible in your area.

FLASH FLOOD WARNING means a flash flood is occurring or will occur very soon.

If you are told to leave, do so immediately! Take your evacuation kit


• First aid kit
• Medicine, prescriptions
• Baby food and diapers
• Games, books, music players with headphones
• Toiletries
• Battery-powered radio and cell phone
• Flashlights
• Extra batteries
• A blanket or sleeping bag for each person
• Identification
• Copies of key papers such as insurance policies or cards
• Cash, credit cards

Do you really know how deep and fast the water is?

People often underestimate the force of water. Most vehicles, including SUVs and trucks, lose contact with the road in 6 inches of water and can be swept away in 18-24 inches of water. More than half of all flood-related deaths are vehiclerelated. Of these, most are preventable.

Do not attempt to cross flowing arroyos or water courses.


• Road beds may be washed out or undercut by flood waters.
• Flooded roadways may conceal debris or sinkholes.
• Do not drive a r o u n d barricades.

If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

Although it may not be raining at your home, flooding can be caused by rain falling several miles upstream, and then moving downstream rapidly.

The construction of buildings, highways, and parking lots increases runoff by reducing the amount of rain absorbed by the ground.

Be aware of any dams upstream of your location. If flooding occurs, move to higher ground.

During periods of heavy rainfall, storm drains may become overwhelmed and flood roads and buildings.

What to do after a flood.

Listen to radio, TV or NOAA Weather Radio. Wait until an area is declared safe before entering.

If you come upon a barricade or a flooded road, Turn Around Don't Drown!

Standing water may be electrically charged from power lines.

Standing water may be electrically charged from power lines.

Never use candles or other open flames indoors.

Check gas, water and electrical lines and appliances for damage.

Do not drink or prepare food with tap water until officials say it is safe.