by Coachella Valley | July 10, 2018 6:20 am
Flooding is the most common natural disaster and can occur anywhere.
Flooding can be localized in a particular neighborhood or widespread, affecting entire cities or large portions of states and territories.
Floods can develop over a period of days, giving you adequate time to prepare; however, flash floods can develop in a matter of minutes.
Flash flood waters can be caused by heavy rain, levee breaches or dam failures. Rushing flood waters can be deeper and stronger than they look. These waters are also destructive and can carry debris, rocks and mud.
• Determine whether your home or work place is in a predetermined flood plain.
• Stay informed and know flood terminology:
• Get an emergency supply kit, and store it where it can be accessed by all family members.
• Know your installation’s plan, and develop an evacuation procedure as a family.
• Develop a communication plan in case you are not together during evacuation.
• Identify where you can go if you need to reach higher ground quickly and on foot.
• Keep enough fuel in your car’s tank to evacuate. Expect a high volume of slow traffic.
• Stay tuned to the radio or TV for further information and instructions.
• If you are ordered to evacuate:
• Once you are in a safe place, report to your command if you are military or government civilian personnel or a member of the selective reserves.
• Listen to news reports to make sure water supplies are not contaminated.
• Stay clear of flood waters, standing and moving, as they may be contaminated or deeper than expected.
• Beware of downed power lines.
• Avoid any roads where flood waters have receded as they may have weakened and could collapse under the weight of a car.
• Be extremely cautious when entering buildings and homes, as there may be unseen damage.
• Clean and disinfect everything that was touched by flood water, as it can contain sewage and other contaminants.
Source URL: https://coachellavalley.com/coachella-valley-flooding-prepared/
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