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.

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