⚠️ Why Floods Are So Dangerous
- Fast-Moving Water: It only takes a few inches to cause loss of control or injury
- Contamination: Floodwaters often carry sewage, chemicals, and debris
- Infrastructure Failure: Roads, bridges, and electrical systems can collapse
- Mold & Illness: Flooded homes often develop mold, respiratory issues, and bacteria spread
- Delayed Response: Flooding can trap entire neighborhoods or rural areas without help for days
📍 High-Risk Areas
- Coastal communities
- River valleys and basins
- Urban areas with poor drainage
- Low-lying or flat terrain
- Locations downstream from dams or levees
🚨 Warning Signs & Triggers
- Intense or prolonged rainfall
- Snowmelt + rain in spring
- Flash flood alerts from weather services
- Overflowing rivers, creeks, or drainage canals
- Sudden rise in water near roads or property
💧 Flood Emergency Kit Essentials
- Waterproof document bag with IDs, insurance, medical records
- Flashlight, radio, and extra batteries
- Non-perishable food & clean water (3–7 days minimum)
- Waterproof boots & gloves
- First aid kit + extra medications
- Portable phone charger or solar bank
- Spare clothes sealed in plastic bags
- Sandbags or inflatable barriers (if in a known flood zone)
🚪 Evacuate or Shelter in Place?
🏃♂️ Evacuate Immediately If:
- You receive an evacuation order or flood warning
- Water is rising near your home or on your evacuation route
- You live in a basement suite or below-grade property
🏠 Shelter in Place If:
- Flood risk is low and you’re safely uphill or outside the affected zone
- You have food, water, and power stored
- Emergency services have advised that staying is safe
⏳ Floods can last hours to weeks depending on geography, infrastructure, and rainfall. Always prep for at least 3–7 days of disruption.
👨👩👧👦 Flood Safety Tips for Families
- NEVER walk, swim, or drive through floodwaters
- Turn around—don’t drown
- Keep emergency numbers and radios easily accessible
- Store irreplaceable items on upper floors or in waterproof containers
- Identify a higher ground meeting place and rehearse evacuation routes
✅ Trusted Flood Resources
