Safety Procedures During a Flood

When floods strike due to torrential rains, hurricanes or other disasters, it can be a devastating time for those caught in the water's path. Flooding can cause immense property damage as well as serious dangers to life itself. Following basic safety procedures when a flood warning is issued could mean the difference in staying safe and experiencing a tragedy.

Follow an Emergency Plan

• People living in a flood-prone area should have an emergency flood plan in place long before the danger arrives. Discuss the plan with the family, and put it into action when the time comes. An emergency plan should include the procedures for preparing the home for minimum damage in the event of an issued evacuation. Shut off utilities at the main, including gas, water and electricity. Secure items in danger of being washed away on the outside of the home, and move items in the home that may be seriously damaged by water to upper levels or as high as possible.

  Keep emergency supplies ready, such as battery-powered radios, extra batteries, first aid kit, nonperishable foods, a can opener, candles or flashlights, water purifying tablets, blankets, water-repellant clothing and footwear, children's supplies and medication.

Move to Higher Ground or Evacuate

• Follow orders issued by emergency agencies, and be prepared to evacuate when asked. During a flood, it is extremely important to move to higher ground if necessary and to vacate the area if requested by officials.

Avoid Moving Water

• Even six inches of quickly moving water can knock an adult off his feet and send him tumbling where he may be injured, knocked out and possibly drown. Avoid moving water and areas where the depth of the water is unknown. Use a stick to poke into the water ahead on the path to make sure there isn't a drop-off.

  In addition, never try to drive through floodwaters. What appears to be fairly shallow water can be enough to make the tires lose contact with the road and wash the car away, possibly trapping passengers helplessly inside.

Stay Clear of Electrical Wires

• An obvious but important factor to remember is that electricity and water do not mix. Stay clear of any downed power lines or any other exposed electrical wires. Severe flooding can reach electrical devices and wires that may not come to mind as a threat, but venturing into an electrified patch of water can be enough to kill.