Dealing With Floods before They Occur
July 2010
Lucy Zhang
National weather forecasts are predicting a lot of rain this coming spring. The administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), Jane Lubchenco, said that “we are looking at potentially historical flooding in some parts.” To help you determine if your area is in danger of a flood, NOAA has provided daily alerts for each area of the country.
Floods result in hundreds of deaths a year, and most of these happen inside cars. No place is immune to flooding.
Before a flood happens, families should plan an escape route. This plan needs to include a driving route that will allow the family to leave an area while avoiding flooded roads. Families are advised to place all valuables in flood-proof and fire-proof boxes. Also prepare a kit that includes drinking water, food, a basic first aid kit, medicines, and other items. Visit Ready.gov for a complete list of things to pack.
When a flood hits, turn off all electricity in your home. Stay with your family and travel to higher ground. Make sure to be informed by listening to the radio.
After returning home, do not turn on the electricity until an inspector has deemed it safe. Look around your house for damage and make a list of all things that need to be replaced. Sanitize all of the counters, because flood waters often contain bacteria. If any food has come in contact with the water, throw it out.
For information on flood insurance and how much it will cost you after a flood, visit http://www.floodsmart.gov
Reference:
http://www.farmandranchguide.com/articles/2010/03/18/ag_news/regional_news/news25.txt
