In Case of Flood: Here's What to Do

Living in one of our country's flood areas where annual floods are typical, being prepared and having a plan to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your home is crucial.

If you're new to an area where floods are common and you aren't familiar with how to prepare, this article will be helpful to you. Even those who have lived in a flood area for a long time can benefit from brushing up on these preparation tips. Keep reading to learn more. 

Understand the Difference Between Flood Watches and Flood Warnings

As you're probably already aware, there are different kinds of alerts for impending floods, and these alerts depend on the immediacy and type of potential flooding. Make sure that both you and your family members know about the different community flood warnings. 

Here's what to keep in mind:

• Flood watches are issued when the rainfall is heavy enough to cause an overflow in local rivers and creeks. 

• Flood warnings are announcements about the severity of the flood situation. They indicate where and when the flood will start. 

• Flash flood watches are issued when heavy rain is taking place or expected to soon take place. 

• Flash flood warnings are issued when the flooding occurs suddenly. If a flash flood warning is issued in your community, you should move to high ground as quickly as possible. 

By understanding the differences between these alerts, you'll know how to take proper precautions as a household. 

People Who Live in Flood Areas Should Protect Themselves

Being prepared for an unexpected flood is very important, especially if you live in one of the flood areas where flooding is common. Let's take a look at some of the efforts you can make to better protect yourself, your family, and your pets should a flood occur:

Create an evacuation plan as a family in case your community is one of the flood areas that gets evacuated. If you have any pets, make sure you create an evacuation plan for them as well. Develop a detailed "what to do" communication plan in case any of your family members become separated in the process. 

Maintain a good supply of emergency provisions as a household. Keep a first aid kit, medication, emergency food and water, flashlights, batteries, a battery-operated radio, and credit cards and cash available at all times. 

Keep a supply of tools and building materials including nails, hammer, shovels, sandbags, plywood, and plastic sheeting. With these items, you can fortify your house from a storm. 

Create a home inventory list of all the possessions you own and their value so that if your belongings are destroyed in a flood, you'll be able to file a detailed claim with the insurance company. 

Install a backwater prevention valve that will keep intruding floodwater from backing up your sewer drains. Make sure each member of your household knows where to find the switches for electricity, gas, and water so they can shut them off in case of a flood emergency. 

Purchase flood insurance. You are probably aware that most homeowners' insurance policies don't include flood insurance, so if you live in one of many flood areas, you're at risk and might want to consider insuring your household.

In addition to these tips for how to prepare for a flood, you can also find helpful instructions at BetterFlood.com BFE article. 

Driving Cautions During a Flood

When a flood is upon you, it's important to stay alert and monitor your surroundings. Stay tuned to the NOAA Weather Radio station, to your local radio or television stations, or to www.weather.gov for updates. 

Avoid driving anywhere unless you absolutely have to and if you must drive, drive with care. Make sure you have enough gas and follow all of the recommended routes. Don't try to take any back roads as a short cut or pave your own way as you might get stuck in the flood and be hard to reach by rescue teams. 

Watch out for any washed-out roads or downed power lines and trees. Be particularly careful driving at night during a flood because it will be harder to recognize impending dangers. If your vehicle stalls, exit it right away. If the water rises up around your car, get out and climb to higher ground as quickly as you can. 

Remember that you can lose control of your vehicle in just a couple of inches of water and cars can be swept away in less than a couple feet of water. 

Evacuate if You're at Risk

If you feel at risk or you're advised to evacuate your home, act quickly. Aim to save yourself instead of your belongings.

Move to a safe area before your route is cut off by the rising floods. Families should stick together in one vehicle to avoid separation. Make sure you lock up your home and shut off the gas and electrical services before leaving your house. 

Other Useful Tips

Find other helpful information for living in flood areas, or for finding local restaurants, upcoming events. Our website has all the information you need to live life well in San Diego. 

The San Diego area is a great place to live and there's always something exciting going on, so be sure to check back regularly to stay up-to-date on the latest local events and community tips. No matter your interests, you'll find content the content you're looking for living well in San Diego.