subject: Becoming Prepared For A Flood [print this page] Many people live in flood prone regions and face possible destruction of their home on a yearly basis. Other people live in places that are susceptible to rare floods.
As a result these people are unprepared to cope with the aftermath of the flood when one comes. Many of these people may not have even known that they were in danger of possible flood.
It is very important to be aware of the possible natural disasters that can occur in your area so that you can properly prepare your family. This preparation is especially important if your home is situated in a low-lying area that is in the direct stream of where water would flow if a nearby dam should break.
During the winter streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, and dry streambeds rise significantly and can pose a threat to your home. There are several steps that you should take to protect your family in case of a flood.
The first step is to learn about the potential natural threats in your area. Learn exactly what things could affect you and how much they would be able to affect you and your home.
Then, do some research on the best way to respond to these various disasters. Become familiar with your community's warning signals and evacuation plans.
As you do your research consider several "safe spots" that your family could retreat to in time of flood and emergency. Consider what tools you may need to survive such an emergency.
Then, hold a discussion with the rest of your family to discuss these potential threats and responses. Detail a plan on paper and make sure that it includes a personal emergency kit for each family member.
Talk about what should go in the kits and where they should be placed in the home so that they can be grabbed in an emergency. The kits should have enough supplies that your family will be able to live for two weeks.
These kits should be stored in easy to grab and carry containers such as back packs and duffel bags. Important family documents should also be carefully placed in water proof containers and packed into these bags.
Be sure to include an emergency preparedness kit in your car as well. Disaster could strike at any moment and it is very important to be prepared.
Then, choose a meeting place just outside your home in case of separation during a fire. Select another location outside of your neighborhood that your family can meet at in case of separation and you are incapable of returning home.
In addition, choose a family member or friend that lives out of state that your family members can call if you get separated so that you can get back in touch with each other. Make sure that these phone numbers are posted next to your phone and entered into everyone's cell phones.
After you have made a plan, inspect your home for things that may become hazardous during a disaster. This includes things that may fall and break or catch fire.
Do something about these things when possible. As you inspect your home make sure that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working correctly and have batteries.
Make sure the family knows where the fire extinguishers are located and how to use them correctly. It is also important that your children know when and how to call 911 or other emergency numbers, including a medical assistance number.
Then, make what your plan a game to help young children remember what they are supposed to do. Quiz them on meeting places, phone numbers, and safety rules and reward them with treats.
Role play what happens during a fire, including running out to the meeting place. Review where the emergency kits are located and continue to test your safety equipment monthly.
With proper preparation, your family will not have to worry about what they should do if a disaster strikes.
