Flooding Preparedness & Safety

Flooding is one of the most common and deadly natural disasters, and it causes more deaths on average than tornadoes and lightning combined. Flash floods, in particular, are sudden and deadly, often occurring without much warning. By knowing how to prepare and respond to floods, you can protect yourself, your loved ones, and your property.

Flash Floods: Quick and Deadly

• Flash floods occur rapidly—sometimes in just minutes—following heavy rain, and they can be triggered by thunderstorms, dam breaks, or levee breaches. Flash floods can carry debris, mud, and rocks, posing significant dangers even in seemingly harmless areas.
• Warning: Flash floods are often unpredictable, with little to no warning.
• Watch: Be prepared and stay alert when conditions are favorable for flash floods.
• Warning Issued: If you receive a Flash Flood Warning or notice signs of an imminent flash flood, act immediately—you may only have seconds to save yourself.

Driving in Flood Conditions: Know the Risks

• Flash Flood Fatalities: Nearly half of all flash flood fatalities are related to automobiles. Avoid driving through flooded roads. Even 2 feet of water can carry away most vehicles.
• Important Facts:
  • 6 inches of moving water can cause loss of control or stall your vehicle.
  • 1 foot of water can float many vehicles, including SUVs.
  • 2 feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles, including large ones like pickups and SUVs.
  • “TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN” is the golden rule to remember when encountering flooded roads.

Before a Flood: How to Prepare

1. Avoid Flood-Prone Areas: Do not build in flood-prone areas unless your home is properly elevated and reinforced.
2. Elevate Utilities: Elevate important utilities like your furnace, water heater, and electric panels above potential flood levels.
3. Install Check Valves: To prevent sewage backups, install check valves in sewer traps.
4. Community Preparedness: Contact local officials to find out if barriers like levees or flood walls are being planned in your area.
5. Waterproof Basements: Seal basement walls with waterproofing compounds to prevent seepage during heavy rainfall.

During a Flood: Safety Actions

• Stay Informed: Listen to local media, weather radio, or official alerts for updates on the flood situation.
• Move to Higher Ground: If flash flooding is possible, immediately move to higher ground. Flash floods can happen without warning and in areas you might not expect.
• Evacuate if Needed:
  • Secure Your Home: If possible, move essential items to higher floors and secure outdoor furniture.
  • Turn off Utilities: If instructed, turn off utilities at the main switches or valves. Never touch electrical equipment while standing in water.
• If Evacuating:
  • Never Walk in Moving Water: 6 inches of moving water can cause you to fall. If walking is necessary, use a stick to check the ground in front of you.
  • Do Not Drive Through Flooded Areas: If floodwaters rise around your vehicle, abandon it and seek higher ground immediately.

After a Flood: What to Do

1. Stay Informed: Listen for news reports on whether your community’s water supply is safe to drink.
2. Avoid Floodwaters: Floodwater may be contaminated with chemicals, sewage, or even be electrically charged.
3. Stay Away from Downed Power Lines: Report any downed power lines to the power company immediately.
4. Be Cautious When Returning Home:
   • Only return home when authorities say it’s safe.
   • Inspect your home for hidden damage, especially in foundations.
   • Service damaged septic systems and other utilities to avoid health hazards.
5. Clean & Disinfect: Clean and disinfect everything that was affected by floodwater. Mud from floodwater may contain hazardous materials like sewage and chemicals.

Flood Safety Tips: Key Reminders

• Know Your Risk: Be aware of flood hazards, especially if you live near water, in low-lying areas, or downstream from a dam.
• Protect Your Home: Take proactive steps to safeguard your home against flood risks, such as elevating utilities and waterproofing your basement.
• Respond Quickly: Flash floods can develop rapidly—take immediate action when you receive a flood warning or when conditions appear dangerous.

Stay Safe and Prepared! By preparing for floods today, you can make informed decisions during the event, ultimately saving lives and reducing damage.

For more flood-related information and resources, visit the Faulkner County Office of Emergency Management website.

Additional Resources:

• Flood Safety Tips from FEMA: FEMA Flood Safety

National Weather Service Flood Warnings: NWS Flood Safety