eHow launches Android app: Get the best of eHow on the go.

How To

How to Prepare For Floods

Member
By K M
User-Submitted Article
(11 Ratings)
Prepare For Floods
Prepare For Floods
robinstorm.blogspot.com

Floods can happen anytime if you live in a flood prone area. Water can be a powerful force and the best defense is preparation. Here are some tips to help you prepare for floods.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    First thing you need to do is find out if your home is within the flood-prone area from your local emergency management office or Red Cross.

  2. Step 2

    Make sure you have a thorough understanding of flood warning signs and your community's alert signals.

  3. Step 3

    If you live in a highly flood-prone area, you need to have a stock of plywood, sandbags, shovel, sand, plastic sheeting, hammer, nails and a saw. These are essential in times of oncoming flooding. You may also need large corks to plug tubs and sinks. Fill tubs and sinks with water in the event it may get contaminated.

  4. Step 4

    Make sure all of your electrical boxes are raised as well as your electrical appliances and any HVAC units. Bring patio furniture inside. Stash valuables at a higher elevation.

  5. Step 5

    Have an emergency kit in the case of necessary evacuation or power outages. This should consist of: flashlights and extra batteries, battery operated radio, first aid kit and manual, emergency food and water, sturdy shoes, non-electric can opener, essential medication, cash and credit cards.

  6. Step 6

    Have a plan. Know of the nearest shelters or places to stay. Plan your evacuation route. Make sure, if you have a family, that everyone is aware of this plan.

Tips & Warnings
  • Contact your local Red Cross Chapter or Emergency Management Center for more information and tips.
  • If you are in a car and are headed toward flooded areas, immediately turn around.
  • If you are in a car caught in a flooded area, immediately leave your vehicle and head to higher ground.

Comments  

| View All 12 Comments

billips said

Flag This Comment

on 10/22/2009 It certainly pays to be prepared for any weather catastrophe - I am grateful that I am too high to be affected by floods - not so some other problems though - but I do prepare - 5* - B.

sonni57 said

Flag This Comment

on 9/25/2009 Good article on how to prepare for floods.

betterbody said

Flag This Comment

on 9/23/2009 Great 5* tips we can all use. Not something I want to see again!

makaksa said

Flag This Comment

on 9/23/2009 Good points on flood preparation.

lotsnmore said

Flag This Comment

on 9/23/2009 Great article. Preparing for a flood is vital!

Subscribe

Post a Comment

Post a Comment

Related Ads

  • Have you done this? Click here to let us know.
I Did This
Get Free Home & Garden Newsletters

Copyright © 1999-2009 eHow, Inc. Use of this web site constitutes acceptance of the eHow Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.   en-US Portions of this page are modifications based on work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License.

eHow Home and Garden
eHow_eHow Home and Garden