Before a flood

·        Prepare an emergency kit and make a family communications plan

·        Avoid building in floodplains, unless structure is elevated and reinforced

·        Elevate the furnace, water heater, and electric panel

·        Consider installing “check valves” to prevent floodwater backups

·        Construct barriers to stop floodwater from entering the building and, seal basement walls with waterproofing compounds

Driving tips

·        Six inches of water will stall or cause control issues in most passenger vehicles

·        A foot of water will float many passenger vehicles

·        Two feet of rushing water can carry away most passenger vehicles including, SUVs and pick-ups

·        Never attempt to drive through a flooded road; depth is not always obvious, and the roadbed may be washed away under the surface

·        Do not drive around barricades

·        Do not try to take short-cuts, and stick to designated evacuation routes

·        Avoid driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers