Floods - are you prepared?

Published July 14, 2015
By Staff Sgt. Christopher Mcshan
341st Civil Engineer Squadron

MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States. They can occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall. Floods usually occur as a result of overflowing rivers or streams due to excessive rainwater. They can also occur as snow melts and exceeds the capacity of streets. It is important that individuals take proper precautions before, during and after a flood occurs. Below are a few tips to help with flooding if it happens in your area.

Before:
· Build an emergency kit and have a family communication plan.
· Avoid building in a floodplain if possible.
· Consider installing check valves to prevent flood water from backing up into drains of homes.

During:
· Listen to the radio or television for information
· Be aware that flash flooding can occur
· Do not drive or walk through moving water. Only a few inches of moving water can sweep people or vehicles away quickly.

After:
· Be aware of areas where floodwater was present.
· Structures and roads may have been weaken by the water and could collapse if treaded on.
· Floodwater can be dangerous. Debris and chemicals that can cause harm may be in the water.
· Try to avoid floodwater at all costs.

For more information on floods, visit www.fema.gov or www.ready.gov, or call the Office of Emergency Management at 731-6632.

Additional information can also be found in the following videos:

http://www.community.fema.gov/connect.ti/AmericasPrepareathon/view?objectId=3221360