Flood Disaster Preparedness
Before a flood
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Prepare an emergency kit and make a family communications plan
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Avoid building in floodplains, unless structure is elevated and reinforced
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Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel
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Consider installing “check valves” to prevent floodwater backups
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Construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and, seal basement walls with waterproofing compounds
Driving tips
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Six inches of water will stall or cause control issues in most passenger vehicles
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A foot of water will float many passenger vehicles
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Two feet of rushing water can carry away most passenger vehicles including, SUVs and pick-ups
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Never attempt to drive through a flooded road; depth is not always obvious, and the roadbed may be washed away under the surface
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Do not drive around barricades
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Do not try to take short-cuts, and stick to designated evacuation routes
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Avoid driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers