Floods

Prolonged rainfall over several days can cause a river or stream to overflow and flood the surrounding area.  A flash flood from a broken dam or levee or after an intense rainfall of one inch (or more) per hour catches people unprepared.  Regardless, the rule for being safe is simple.  Head for high ground and stay away from the water.  Even a shallow depth of fast-moving flood water produces more force than most people imagine.  The most dangerous thing you can do is to try walking, swimming or driving through such swift water.  Still, you can take steps to prepare for these types of emergencies.  Hold a family meeting and prepare your disaster plan.

Are you ready for a FLOOD or a FLASH FLOOD???

Here's what you can do to prepare for such emergencies......................

Know what to expect

• Know your area's flood risk
• If it has been raining hard for several days, be alert to the possibility of a flood
• Listen to local radio or TV stations for flood information
• Floods can take several hours to days to develop

  • A flood WATCH means a flood is possible in your area
  • A flood WARNING means flooding is already occurring or will occur in your area.

When a FLOOD WATCH is issued:

• Move your furniture and other valuables to higher floors of your home.
• Fill your car's gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued.

When a FLOOD WARNING is issued:

• Listen to local radio and TV stations for information and advice.  If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible.

When a FLASH FLOOD WATCH is issued:

• Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice.

When a FLASH FLOOD WARNING is issued:

• Or if you think it has already started, evacuate immediately.  You may have only seconds to escape!  Act quickly!
• Move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks and storm drains.  Do not drive around barricades...they are there for your safety.
• If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.

Some internet sites that may be beneficial for flood watching are the stream gauges in Lake County at:

                   Grand River/Painesville

                   Chagrin River/Willoughby

                   Rain Gauges of Lake County

           Floods

In Ohio, flood hazards often result from severe thunderstorms, seasonal rains and other weather-related conditions. Areas in proximity to rivers or lakes are often at the greatest risk of flooding when the flow of rainwater is greater than the carrying capacity of natural drainage systems. With Ohio's temperamental climate and unique geography, it is important that you plan and prepare for flooding year around.

Planning
Buy a flood insurance policy - especially if you are in a high-risk area. Do not wait for flood-like conditions to purchase flood insurance as this process typically takes up to 30 days.

Prepare a Disaster Supply Kit:

• First aid kit / essential medications
• Canned food and can opener
• At least three gallons of water per person
• Protective clothing, bedding, or sleeping bags
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries
• Special items for infant, elderly, or disabled family members
• Written instructions on how to turn off electricity, gas, and water if authorities advise you to do so. (You will need a professional to turn natural gas service back on)

If time permits, prepare your home for flood conditions.

• Turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve if evacuation appears necessary.
• Move valuables, such as papers, furs, jewelry, and clothing to upper floors or higher elevations.
• Fill bathtubs, sinks and plastic soda bottles with clean water. Sanitize the sinks and tubs first by using bleach. Rinse, then fill with clean water.
• Bring outdoor possessions, such as lawn furniture, grills and trash cans inside, or tie them down securely.

Preparedness

During a Flood:

• Keep a battery-powered radio tuned to a local station, and follow emergency instructions.
• If the water rises inside your home or building before you have evacuated, retreat to a higher level. Take dry clothing, a flashlight and a portable radio with you and wait for help.
• Do not try to swim for help.
• Do not drive through a flooded area. If you come upon a flooded road, turn around and go another way. More people drown in their cars than anywhere else.
• Do not walk through flooded areas. As little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.
• Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires. Electrocution is another major source of deaths in floods. Electric current passes easily through water.
• Look out for animals - especially snakes. Animals lose their homes in floods, too. They may seek shelter in yours.

Response

After a Flood:

• If your home or business has suffered damage, call your insurance company or agent to file a claim.
• Before entering a building, check for structural damage.
• Upon entering the building, do not use matches, cigarette lighters or any other open flames, since gas leaks are often undetectable and may cause explosions
• Keep power off until an electrician has inspected your system
• Clean up your house right away. Throw out any foods or medications that have come into contact with floodwater.