Prior to a Flood:

• Check with your local municipal office to find out if you live in a flood-prone area.  Ask whether you live in a poor drainage area and if your property is above or below the flood stage water level.  You can also visit www.floodsmart.gov  to quickly check your home’s relative risk of flooding.
   
• Consider purchasing flood insurance.  Homeowner’s insurance does not cover flood damage.
   
• Make sure storm water drains are clear.
   

During a Flood:

• Seek higher ground immediately.
   
•  If told to evacuate, do so immediately.
   
• Avoid downed power lines. Touching a live power line can cause serious injury or death. Call 9-1-1 to report downed lines.
   
• Do not drive through standing water.  Most vehicles, including SUVs, can be easily swept away in just two feet of moving water.
   
• If water has entered a garage or basement, do not walk through it because it may contain hazardous or toxic materials, such as raw sewage.
   
• Be familiar with the different types of weather warnings and watches issued by the National Weather Service:
  • A flood watch means that flooding may occur.  Residents should keep alert and watch rivers and streams.  If the water levels rise - don't wait, move to higher ground quickly.  A flash flood watch mean flash flooding is possible.  Be prepared to move to higher ground.  A flash flood could occur without any warning.   
  • A flood warning or a flash flood warning means that there is actual flooding.  Do not stand in moving water and move to higher ground immediately. 
     
• Stay tuned to a NOAA weather radio or local news stations for up-to-date information.  In addition, be aware of Emergency Alert System (EAS) messages.