Flash floods are usually the result of intense storms dropping large amounts of rain within a brief period of time. Flash floods occur with little or no warning and can reach full peak in only a few minutes.

Dam failures are potentially the most catastrophic of flood events. A dam failure is usually the result of neglect, poor design, or structural damage caused by a major event such as an earthquake. When a dam fails, a gigantic quantity of water is suddenly released downstream, destroying anything in its path.

BEFORE

Find out if you live in a flood-prone area from your local public works or emergency management office. Ask whether your property is above or below the flood stage water level and learn about the history of flooding for your region.

Learn the flood warning signs and your community alert signals. If you live in a frequently flooded area, you should stockpile emergency building material. These include: plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber, nails, hammer and saw, pry bar, shovels, and sandbags.

Have check-valves installed in building sewer traps to prevent flood waters from backing up in sewer drains. As a last resort, use large corks or stoppers to plug showers, tubs, or basins.

Plan and practice an evacuation route. Contact the Coffee County Emergency Management Agency for information concerning community flood evacuation. Information is available concerning the safest routes to shelters. Individuals living in flash flood areas should have serveral alternate routes to higher ground.

DURING

A Flood Watch:
Listen to the radio for further information. Fill bathtubs, sinks, and jugs with clean water in case water becomes contaminated. Bring outdoor belongings, such as patio furniture, indoors. Move valuable household possessions to the upper floors or to safe ground, if time permits. If you are instructed to do so by local authorities, turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve.

Join with neighbors and volunteers to put sandbags or other protection in place. Stack sandbags away from the outside walls of houses to prevent floodwater from entering.

If Outdoors:
Climb to high ground and stay there. Don't attempt to walk through even slow-moving flood waters. Flood waters one foot deep can sweep you off your feet.

If In A Car:
Don't drive over a flooded road. Turn around and go another way. If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground. Many deaths have resulted from attempts to move stalled vehicles.

DURING AN EVACUATION

If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Evacuation is much simpler and safer before flood waters become too deep for ordinary vehicles to drive through. Listen to the radio for evacuation instructions. Follow recommended evacuation routes; shortcuts may be blocked. Leave early enough to avoid being marooned by flooded roads.

AFTER AN EVACUATION

Flood dangers do not end when the water begins to recede. Listen to a radio or television and don't return home until the authorities have indicated that it is safe.

Do not enter buildings if flood waters recede around the building. When entering building, use extreme caution. Wear sturdy shoes and use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights when examining building. Inspect foundations for dettling or cracking. Examine walls, floors, doors, and windows to make sure that the building is not in danger of collapsing. Watch for loose plaster and ceiling materials that could fall.

Look for fire hazards:

-Broken or leaking gas lines
-Flooded electrical circuits
-Submerged furnaces or electrical appliances
-Flammable or explosive material coming from upstream

Do not use water or eat food that has come in contact with flood waters.

Pump out flooded basements gradually (about one-third of the water per day) to avoid structural damage.

Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are health hazards.

Have emergency supplies on hand.

Develop an emergency communication plan.

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