Surviving a flood - dos and don'ts
Do leave if local authorities recommend evacuation. Their advice is based on knowledge of the predicted magnitude of the flood and the potential for death and destruction.
Do not walk through flowing water. Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths. Water currents can be deceptive; shallow but fast-moving water can knock you off your feet.
Do not drive through a flooded area. More people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Don't drive around road barriers—they are put up for your protection—the road or bridge beyond the barrier may be washed out.
Do not drink floodwater. Floodwaters carry harmful pollutants and waterborne diseases that can result in illness or death. When flooding interrupts normal drinking-water supply, consider bottled water or treating other forms of safe supply such as spring water, rainfall, or lake and stream water from areas not affected by the flood. Treatment methods include boiling, disinfection, and distillation.
Stay away from power lines and electrical wires. The number two cause of flood deaths is electroution. Electrical current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to the power company or city/county emergency management office.
Be alert for gas leaks. Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don't smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames unless you know the gas has been turned off and the area has been ventilated.
Look before you step. Small animals that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours, so use caution when entering flooded buildings. Also, floodwaters will cover floors with slippery mud that can contain broken or dangerous objects.
Be extremely cautious using recently flooded electrical equipment. Some appliances such as television sets, keep electrical charges even after they have been unplugged. Don't use appliances or motors that have gotten wet unless they have been taken apart, cleaned, and dried.
