How To Prepare for a Flash Flood

Flash_flood Do you live in a flood prone area? Have you ever wondered what to do in the event of a flash flood? Are you willing to spend a little time and energy preparing for a disaster that could strike at any time?

The American Red Cross has information that can help you prepare for the unfortunate event of a flash flood:

Know What to Expect

* Know your area's flood risk--if unsure, call your local Red Cross chapter, emergency management office, or planning and zoning department.

* If it has been raining hard for several hours, or steadily raining for several days, be alert to the possibility of a flood.

* Listen to local radio or TV stations for flood information.

Reduce Potential Flood Damage By . . .

* Raising your furnace, water heater, and electric panel if they are in areas of your home that may be flooded.

* Consult with a professional for further information if this and other damage reduction measures can be taken.

Floods Can Take Several Hours to Days to Develop

* A flood WATCH means a flood is possible in your area.

* A flood WARNING means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area.

Flash Floods Can Take Only a Few Minutes to a Few Hours to Develop

* A flash flood WATCH means flash flooding is possible in your area.

* A flash flood WARNING means a flash flood is occurring or will occur very soon.

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 o

Things you might need

Things to include in your disaster preparedness kit:
* First aid kit and essential medications.
* Canned food and can opener.
* At least three gallons of water per person
* Protective clothing, rainwear, and bedding or sleeping bags.
* Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.
* Special items for infants, elderly, or disabled family members.
* Written instructions for how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise you to do so. (Remember, you'll need a professional to turn them back on.)
* Identify where you could go if told to evacuate. Choose several places . . . a friend's home in another town, a motel, or a shelter.