Flood Safety Precautions

Before

Know the following terms:
- Flood Watch—Flooding possible in a certain designated area.
- Flood Warning—Flooding imminent or already reported.

Learn to recognize environmental clues such as heavy rains, topography and flood history of the region.

Know your elevation above flood stage and the history regarding flooding of your location.

Learn first aid and CPR at your local Red Cross chapter or community organization.

Keep on hand a battery-operated flashlight and radio.

Learn evacuation routes.

Keep vehicle fueled since power failure may render service stations inoperable.

During

Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding.

Do not attempt to cross a stream where water is above your knees. When in doubt, don't try it.

Do not try to drive over a flooded road. The water can be much deeper than it appears and you could be stranded or trapped.

Do not try to drive around police barricades.

Stay away from drains and ditches.
 

After

Do not eat fresh food that has come in contact with flood waters.

Boil drinking water before using.

Report broken gas, electrical and water lines immediately.

Do not handle electrical equipment in wet areas.


Do not sightsee. Your presence could impede relief efforts as well as endanger yourself.

Cooperate with local officials. Respond to requests for assistance from local police, firefighters and relief workers.

Community participation is critical to effective disaster relief.


source: http://disaster.ifas.ufl.edu/PDFS/CHAP09/D09-06.PDF