Survival Scoop

SAFETY TIPS FOR FLOODS

Flooding is rated first in the United States for weather related deaths. Flood conditions contribute to the deaths of an average of 140 people annually. Vehicle deaths account for 3/4ths of that total.

Nature is not the enemy in a flood and realizing this can contribute to your chances to survive. Flood conditions occur often enough that much information on survival techniques has been gathered.

Rivers that overflow their banks account for the primary form of flooding. Though there has been no rainfall in an immediate area, it is possible to experience flooding. Upriver storms and rain can cause the waters to rise in areas that haven't even detected a cloud. Extended rainfall over a period of weeks or days can culminate in flooding downstream. Two important pieces of information are your risk for flooding and the topography of the land in your area.

Restraining your pets or placing them on a leash indoors is one precaution you can take in time of flooding. Livestock should be moved to high ground. Tune your radio to the local weather station for updates and warnings. Time is of the essence when a flood warning is issued -- a flash flood warning may give you even less time to act. Escape may be measured in seconds. Swollen waterways will dispense their overflow onto the lowest level. Quickly the streams, creeks and streets will fill. Seek out higher ground rather than trying to outrun floodwaters. Don't try to drive out of a flash flood. A car cannot accelerate as quickly as a flash flood.

For those that have time to prepare, furniture and treasured items can be relocated to a higher level. Fill a variety of containers, even your bathtub, with clean water. If you have a family disaster plan, use it now.

If you see water covering an area, DON'T DRIVE into it. That water may be hiding hazards. The area isn't safe no matter how well you know it. The ground surface could have been compromised by water and objects. Toxic chemicals, downed power lines or an assortment of other debris can be mixed with the floodwater. Stop your vehicle, turn it around and find an alternate route.

Don't walk through standing water. The pull of floodwaters is deceptively strong. As little as a half-of a foot of water can be sufficient to set a child or an adult off their feet, carrying them away. Boiling water advisories may be issued so you'll want to listen to your radio for those. Take special note of any small openings in your home's exterior. Snakes, rats and neighbors' pets will be seeking shelter too, and may choose your home as a refuge.

Walk around the exterior of your house when you return after a flood to check for damage and places where animals may have entered. If you see foundation damage, it's best to hire a professional to inspect the safety of the premises. Wear protective clothing when cleaning up after a flood. Remember to wear a dust mask, long-sleeves, long pants, rubber gloves and waterproof boots. There will be a lot of silt, debris and mud swept into a flooded home. Bring enough clothing to change as your work garments get soiled. The sludge contains bacteria that could cause sickness.

There was an impressive flood in Cane Creek, TN earlier this year. <media 1838 - external-link-new-window>No Greater Joy's July-August issue</media> carried articles about the aftermath. Bestselling author Debi Pearl contributed an article entitled "The Biggest Cane Creek Flood on Record" and illustrated with color photos. Gabriel Pearl, Debi's son, also wrote about the event in "Cane Creek Flood." Read No Greater Joy Magazine online or add your name to their free subscription list.