Depending on a storm surge’s wave size, as well as factors such as ground elevation and existing levee systems, water may become trapped, possibly creating the following associated hazards

• Drowning.
• Electrocution from fallen live wires.
• Sickness from drinking contaminated water.
• Property damage or loss.
• Possible attacks from pets and wild animals (snakes, alligators, rats, etc.) escaping the flood waters.
• Breaks in dams, reservoirs and levees unable to handle the excess flood waters.
• Learn safe routes inland. Be ready to drive 100 to 150 miles inland to locate a safe place. Expect the drive to take longer than usual.
• Have emergency supplies on hand.

Before the flood..

-Know your flood risk and elevation above flood stage. Do your local streams or rivers flood easily? If so, be prepared to move to a place of safety. Know your evacuation routes.
-Keep your automobile fueled; if electric power is cut off, gas stations may not be able to operate pumps for several days.
-Store drinking water in clean bathtubs and in various containers. Water service may be interrupted.
-Keep a stock of food that requires little cooking and no refrigeration; electric power may be interrupted.
-Keep first aid supplies on hand.
-Keep a NOAA Weather Radio, a battery-powered portable radio, emergency cooking equipment, and flashlights in working order.
-Install check valves in building sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into the drains of your home.
-Assemble a disaster supplies kit containing: first aid kit, canned food and can opener, bottled water, rubber boots, rubber gloves, NOAA Weather Radio, battery-Powered radio, flashlight, and extra batteries.

BUY FLOOD INSURANCE

One of the first steps in planning flood protection is to obtain flood insurance. Damages from flood waters, rising surface waters, waves, sewers or drains and from water seeping from below ground are generally not covered under standard homeowners policies. Until the late 1960s, insuring a home against flood loss was very difficult, if not impossible, because insurance is based on a risk-sharing principle. Naturally, people in areas that are not flood prone, would not want to share the risk with those who were likely to flood. In 1968, Congress created the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Its purpose was to offer flood insurance at a reasonable cost in exchange for the careful management of flood-prone areas by local communities.

Flood insurance is administered by the Federal Insurance Administration, a department of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). It can be purchased from any licensed property/casualty agent or broker—the same person who sells homeowners and automobile policies. You can get flood insurance whether you own a home, a business or are renting.

Flood insurance is generally required when buying, building or improving property in an identified flood-prone area if the financing is in any way federally connected—either direct financing from a federal agency (FHA and VA loans, EPA grants, etc.) or a conventional mortgage from a bank or savings and loan that is regulated or insured by the Federal government.

Flood insurance is offered in two phases to communities which qualify by setting up flood plain management and standards for new construction. Under the first phase, called the emergency phase, property owners can buy up to $35,000 coverage on a single-family dwelling and $10,000 coverage on the contents. Residents in communities in the second phase of the program may buy additional coverage. The rates depend on the degree of risk as determined by the Flood Hazard Boundary Maps and the site elevation of the building to be insured. For example, if the base flood level in a particular area is 30 feet, then a first floor level of a structure at an elevation of 33 feet is less likely to suffer severe damage from flooding than a structure that has a first floor elevation below 30 feet. Therefore, rates for insurance will vary depending on the elevation of the structure and the degree of risk as indicated on the Flood Hazard map. A finished floor elevation certificate is usually needed at the time of application for the insurance. Normally, there is a five-day waiting period from the time a policy is purchased until it goes into effect. If there is a transfer of title, coverage becomes effective immediately.

There is a deductible which the policy holder must cover to assume a part of the loss. And, the government will pay only a minimal lump sum for jewelry, art objects or any precious metals. In case of a flood, these items should be well protected.

Flood insurance policies should be kept in a secure place such as a safe deposit box, along with a list of personal property that might be damaged if flooding occurs. Keep the name, phone number and location of the insurance agent(s) who wrote your policy at hand. In case of flooding, call this agent or broker immediately. The agent will then submit a form for flood damage or loss to the National Flood Insurance Program. An adjuster will be assigned to inspect your property. After a major flood covering a large area, there could be delays in getting an adjuster and in servicing your claim.

When the adjuster comes, have your insurance policy in hand along with a list of possessions damaged by the flood. If there is a delay in getting an adjuster, you do not need to delay the cleanup. As soon as it is safe to enter the structure, you may begin the cleanup—as long as you keep flood-damaged items available for inspection. Before and after pictures of possessions and receipts will be useful in verifying claims.

IF TIME PERMITS, PROTECT YOUR POSSESSIONS

If time permits, there are last minute precautions that can be taken to reduce flood damage to personal property:

* Remove pictures, mirrors, paintings and decorations from walls. Water in the house may cause the wallboard to soften. Nails and hanging devices can loosen and slip out, causing wall-hung items to drop to the wet floor. Art objects will not likely be covered at full value by your flood insurance.

* Empty fireplace ashes. If water gets into the fireplace, ashes may be carried over all the house.

* Remove food items such as dog food and other perishables from lower cabinets. These items may spoil and float over the house, causing a foul odor. Even if not covered by water, cardboard containers will absorb moisture from the humidity in the house.

* Remove doors and drawers from lower cabinets and doorways. These are easily warped by water and damaged by water pressure. Large doors can be laid on sawhorses or cement blocks and be used for stacking small items out of reach of flood water.

* Lift curtains and draperies up and tie lower sections to upper sections with twine. If possible, remove curtains and draperies out of any room that will flood. They will likely mildew even if not wet because of excess moisture in the room.

* Remove clothing and shoes from closets and drawers, at least enough for several wearings. Items will likely mildew even if not wet.

* Encase appliances, table legs and other heavy items that won’t float in large plastic bags and tape securely, or raise furniture and appliances on sawhorses, cement blocks or other props. Use for props only barrels that have holes drilled in them; otherwise they will float and overturn items.

* Remove possessions (moving van, rental truck, etc.) to dry location.

* If you have no other means of protecting your possessions, prop or stack more valuable furniture and other items on less valuable pieces.

* Bring outdoor possessions inside the house or tie them down securely. This includes lawn furniture, lawn mowers and power tools, garbage cans, tools, signs, container plants and other moveable objects that might be swept away or hurled about.

* Remove carpets and rugs if time permits.

* Block main sewage outlet from house to avoid sewage back-up.

* Drive or tow out all vehicles or trailers.

* Raise all chemical concentrates (such as lye, pesticides, etc.) to avoid further contamination of flood water.

* Shut off all gas and electric service before leaving residence.

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 for your area, or the moment you realize that a flash flood is imminent, act quickly to save yourself. You may have only SECONDS!

Go to higher ground -Climb to safety!

-Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc.
-Avoid already flooded and high velocity flow areas. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
-If driving, be aware that the road bed may not be intact under flood waters. Turn around and go another way. NEVER drive through flooded roadways!
-If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants and sweep them away. Remember, it’s better to be wet than dead!
-Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
-Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.

When you receive a FLOOD WARNING:

-If advised to evacuate, do so immediatelv.
-Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.
-Continue monitoring NOAA Weather Radio, television, or emergency broadcast station for information.

During the flood:

-Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding.
-Do not attempt to drive over a flooded road.
-If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, STOP! Turn around and go another way.
-The depth of water is not always obvious. The road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.
-Children should NEVER play around high water, storm drains, viaducts, or arroyos.

- Do not walk through flowing water: Six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. Drowning is a major cause of flood deaths. Most of these drownings occur during flash floods. Use a pole or stick to make sure that the ground is still there before you go through an area where the water is not flowing.

-Do not drive through a flooded area: More people drown in their cars than anywhere else. If you come upon a road barrier, turn around and go another way; the road or bridge may be washed out.

-Stay away from power lines and electrical wires: Electrocution is also a major killer in floods. Electrical current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to your utility company or emergency manager.

-Turn off your electricity when you return home: Some applicances, such as television sets, can shock you even after they have been unplugged. Don’t use appliances or motors that have gotten wet unless they have been taken apart, cleaned, and dried by a professional.

-Watch for animals - especially snakes: Small animals that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to poke and turn items over and scare away small animals.

-Look before you step: After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris including broken bottles and nails. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be very slippery.

-Be alert for gas leaks: Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don’t smoke or use candles, laterns, or open flames unless you are sure that the gas has been turned off and the area has been aired out.

-Carbon Monoxide exhaust kills: Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machine outdoors. The same goes for camping stoves. Fumes from charcoal are especially deadly - cook with charcoal outdoors only.

-Clean everything that gets wet: Floodwaters have picked up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, factories, and storage buildings. Spoiled food and flooded cosmetics and medicine are health hazards. When in doubt, throw them out.

-Take good care of yourself: Recovering from a flood is a big job. It is tough on both the body and the spirit. And the effects a disaster has on you and your family may last a long time. Consult a health professional on how to recognize and care for anxiety, stress, and fatigue.

CAUTION !

1. Inspect structure from outside to determine if it is safe to enter.
2. Electrical safety is most important in floods.
3. Never mix chlorine bleach with ammonia or vinegar.

FIRST STEPS TOWARD CLEANUP

1. SEE THAT EVERYONE IS OUT OF DANGER OF NEW FLOOD CRESTS. FIRE AND FALLING BUILDINGS .

2. CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE ADJUSTER IMMEDIATELY.

Flood Insurance Claims:

a. Begin cleanup and salvage as soon as possible. DO NOT WAIT FOR ADJUSTER. All steps suggested on this page can be taken before adjuster arrives. Take photos for use as an inventory.
b. Clean house as much as possible so adjuster can see total damage. Keep damaged materials for proof of loss.
c. Leave phone number where you can be reached when adjuster arrives.
d. Adjuster will assess damages to house. Owner should sign proof of loss statement. Additional damage can be added when found.

3. CONTACT LOCAL, STATE AND NATIONAL GOVERNMENTAL OFFICES FOR INFORMATION.

a. Cooperative Extension Service. One is located in every parish seat (may be listed as County Agent’s Office).
b. Civil Defense

4. BE SURE ALL ELECTRIC AND GAS SERVICES ARE TURNED OFF BEFORE ENTERING PREMISES FOR THE FIRST TIME.

Electrical Systems:

a. Disconnect main switch and all circuits.
b. Remove covers from all outlets and fuse or multi-breaker boxes and flush with clean water.
c. Let dry and spray with contact cleaner/lubricant.
d. Have electrician check for grounds and other unsafe conditions before reconnecting system.

5. UNTIL YOUR LOCAL WATER COMPANY, UTILITY OR PUBLIC HEALTH DEPARTMENT DECLARES YOUR WATER SOURCE SAFE, PURIFY ALL WATER, NOT ONLY FOR DRINKING AND COOKING, BUT ALSO FOR WASHING ANY PART OF THE BODY.

Food and Water Sanitation:

a. Water: Boil water vigorously for 10 minutes or add chlorine bleach (8 drops per gallon), tincture of iodine (12 drops per gallon), or purification tablets to water— following instructions on container.
b. Food: If there is danger of contamination from industrial waste, destroy all foods that were covered by flood waters, including those sealed in unopened cans.

6. TAKE ALL FURNITURE, BEDDING AND FLOOR COVERINGS OUTDOORS TO BE CLEANED AND DRIED.

Carpets and Rugs:

a. Carpets and rugs may be best cleaned by professionals. Without professional help, pull up waterlogged rugs, carpets and pads.
b. Drape rugs and carpets outdoors.
c. Hose off. If badly soiled, add detergent. Work into the carpet with broom. Rinse well.
d. To discourage mildew and odors, rinse with a solution of 1 gal. water and 2 Tbsps. liquid household chlorine bleach. If carpet is wool, do not add bleach.
e. Dry CARPET and FLOOR THOROUGHLY before carpet is replaced. If carpet is put down wet, it may mildew. Carpet might shrink.
f. Waffle-weave and foam or rubber-type pads may be reused.

Floorings

Sub-floors:

a. Layers of submerged plywood sub-floors probably will separate. Sections that separate must be replaced to keep floor covering from buckling.
b. When floor coverings are removed, allow subflooring to dry thoroughly (may take several months). Check for warping before installing new flooring.

Wood Floors:

a. Carefully remove a board every few feet to reduce buckling caused by swelling. If boards are tongue-and-grooved, consult a carpenter about special techniques for removal.
b. Clean and dry floor thoroughly (may take several weeks or even months) before replacing boards and attempting repairs.

Tile and Sheet Vinyl Floors:

a. If submerged subfloor is wood, floor covering probably should be removed so subflooring can be replaced. If floor has not been soaked, loose tiles may be recemented after floor is thoroughly dry.
b. If subflooring is concrete, removal of floor covering will hasten drying of slab. Removal may not be necessary if it would ruin an otherwise unharmed material.
c. If water has seeped under loose sections of sheet flooring, remove entire sheet.
d. Ease of flooring removal depends upon type of material and adhesive. Contact a reputable dealer to find out what solvent and technique (if any) will loosen the adhesive with least damage to floor.

Furniture Cleanup:

a. Take furniture outdoors to clean. Hose or brush off mud. All parts (drawers, doors, etc.) should be removed. Remove or cut hole in back to push out stuck drawers and doors.
b. Dry slowly out of direct sunlight, because sun will warp furniture. It may take several weeks to several months to dry.

7. CLEAN AND DISINFECT AS SOON AS FLOOD WATERS RECEDE.

Cleaning and Disinfecting Walls, Woodwork and Floors:

a. Wash exposed skin parts (hands, feet, etc.) frequently in purified water while cleaning. Wear rubber gloves for extra protection against contamination.
b. Use a disinfectant to clean walls and woodwork from top to bottom. A three-gallon garden sprayer works well. One cup of household laundry chlorine bleach to a gallon of water can be used as a disinfectant. Scrub with a brush to help remove mud and silt. Rinse with clean water. Dry thoroughly. If utilities are on, use heater, fan or air conditioning to speed drying.

8. CLEAN AND DRY SUBMERGED HOUSEHOLD APPLIANGES BEFORE STARTING

Appliances and Equipment:

a. With electricity or fuel turned off, unplug and open as much as possible to rinse or wipe clean and let dry.
b. Tilt to drain and aid quick drying. Three days to a week is necessary for drying.
c. Appliance repairman should check before reconnecting. MOST MOTORIZED APPLIANCES CAN BE SAVED.

9. OPEN WALLS WHERE NECESSARY TO AVOID STRUCTURAL DECAY LATER.

Flood-Damaged Walls:

a. Remove water from structure as rapidly as possible. Try to salvage as much as possible.
b. Remove interior surface of insulated walls to a point above water height.
c. Remove and discard wet insulation.
d. Treat interior wall studs and plates with disinfectant to prevent growth of decay-causing organisms.
e. Provide ventilation by opening windows and doors and using fans.
f. Leave walls open up to four weeks or until they have thoroughly dried.
g. Select replacement materials that will withstand future floods.

10. DELAY PERMANENT REPAIRS UNTIL BUILDINGS ARE THOROUGHLY DRY (may be several weeks).

11. CONTROL MILDEW IN THE WEEKS AND MONTHS THAT FOLLOW THE FLOOD.

Prevent Mildew:

a. If an air conditioner is available, use it to remove moisture.
b. In unair-conditioned home, open as many windows as possible. Use fans to circulate air.
c. Turn on electric lights in closets and leave doors open to dry. Let lights stay on to keep dry and prevent growth of mildew as long as dampness or high humidity is present.

Remove Mildew from Household Articles:

a. Brush off mold and mildew growth outdoors to prevent scattering the spores in the house.
b. Run a vacuum cleaner attachment over the area to draw out more of the mold.
c. Sponge any remaining mildew with thick suds. Wipe with a clean, barely damp cloth.
d. Wipe mildew-stained area with cloth dampened with diluted alcohol (1 cup rubbing [denatured] alcohol to 1 cup water) and dry thoroughly.
e. Spray with fungicide or other commercial disinfectant.
f. Dry article thoroughly.

12. RECONDITION ENGINES BEFORE TRYING TO START THEM.

Automotive and Small Engines:

a. If an engine has been submerged, do not attempt to crank it before reconditioning. Employ a qualified mechanic or do it yourself (if qualified) by following steps b through i.
b. Practice safety with gasoline and other fuels. Use a recommended cleaning solvent, kerosene and a steam cleaner to clean engines. For auto carpets, see the section on carpets and rugs. For upholstery, see household furnishing. You might be wise to take seats and side panels out to dry and seek advice from a trim shop.
c. Drain and clean lubrication and fuel systems, and add clean oil and fuel. This includes transmission systems and proper lubricants. Clean and service bearings where possible or replace with new bearings.
d. Clean air conditioners and install new paper filters or oil in oil bath cleaners. Replace the fuel filter also.
e. Drain and flush radiator and install new coolant.
f. Replace battery if old battery will not hold a charge. Danger: Do not attempt to change battery liquid.
g. Alternator and starter, if submerged, must be removed before attempting to start the vehicle. They must be thoroughly dried out and re-lubricated, or bearings replaced if they are self-lubricating.
h. Thoroughly dry out electrical system. Remove distributor cap, and wipe or blow all water and debris from points, condensor and distributor cap.
i. See your automotive insurance agent. Some companies declare a car a total loss if water covers the dash, ruining the instruments and electrical controls, especially if salt water is involved.