Nobody can stop a flood, but there are actions you can take before, during, and
after a flood to protect your family and keep your property losses to a minimum.
BEFORE THE FLOOD:
Listen to your radio, TV, or
National Weather Service radio
for the latest information on weather conditions that can cause flooding. Click
here to learn about NOAA
Weather Radios. You may also check Brazos CEOC’s and City of College Station’s
Facebook and Twitter for local information.
The BCS area’s common hazard is a flash flood.
Flash flood is rapid flooding in generally low lying area such as washes,
rivers, dry creeks and lakes. It’s occurs when heavy rains in a short amount of
time cover the area. Flash flooding can appear quickly. Remain aware and monitor
local weather updates.
"Flash Flood Watch" means that conditions exist that may lead to flash
flooding. "Flash Flood Warning" means that flash flooding has been reported.
"Urban and Small Stream Advisory" means that flooding of small streams, streets,
and low-lying areas is occurring.
STAY ALERT:
Avoid unnecessary travel during severe weather. Poor
visibility can make trips dangerous. Warn children not play near swollen creeks,
storm drains, or culverts. Do not go near creeks and low-water crossings. Beware
of rising, swift-moving water. Creeks can rise to dangerous levels in as little
as one hour. Manmade features such as storm drains, fences, and culverts create
additional "strainers" that can snag and drown even the strongest swimmer. If
you see major obstructions such as downed trees or telephone poles in a creek,
or if you see a blocked culvert or bridge opening, call dispatch at
979.764.3638.
If time permits, and your house is in the path of the flood:
- Turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve
if evacuation appears necessary.
- Move valuables, such as papers, furs, jewelry, and clothing to upper floors
or higher elevations.
- Fill bathtubs, sinks, and plastic soda bottles with clean water. Sanitize
the sinks and tubs first by using bleach and rinsing.
- Bring outdoor possessions, such as lawn furniture, grills, and trash cans
inside, or tie them down securely.
DURING THE FLOOD:
Stay away and do not drive or walk into
water that is flowing across low water crossings, bridges, or roadways. If you
come upon a flooded road, turn around and go another way. Heed all warnings and
street barricades, because if you go around one, you may be subject to a
fine.
These areas are especially dangerous because:
- As little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet or move
your car.
- More people drown in their cars than anywhere else.
- The road may be washed out below the water surface.
- Your car may stall or get stuck in the water, and then get pushed off the
road. Once off the road, cars often start to roll, making escape
impossible.
MOVE TO A SAFER AREA:
Do not go near downed power lines and
electrical wires. Electrocution is another major source of deaths in floods.
Evacuate your house if instructed to do so. Follow emergency instructions. It
is much safer and easier to evacuate before flood waters become too deep.
If the waters start to rise inside your house before you have evacuated,
retreat to the second floor, attic or roof. Take dry clothing, a flashlight, and
a portable radio.
AFTER THE FLOOD:
Call the insurance company that handles your flood
insurance policy right away to initiate a claim. Most insurance companies will
require repair estimates from a contractor. You should also document any damage
by taking color photographs or video of damages resulting from the flood.
Before entering a flooded building, remember the following:
- Check for structural damage. Don't go in if there is any chance of the
building collapsing.
- Do not use matches, cigarette lighters, or any other open flames, since gas
may be trapped inside. Instead, use a flashlight to light your way.
- Keep power off until an electrician has inspected your system for safety.
- Look out for animals and snakes. Animals lose their homes in floods too.
They may seek shelter in yours.
- Until local authorities proclaim your water supply to be safe, boil water
for five minutes before using for drinking and food preparation.
- Flood waters pick up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, and factories.
If your home has been flooded, protect your family's health by cleaning up your
house right away. Throw out foods and medicines that may have come into contact
with flood water.
- Be careful walking around. After a flood, steps and floors are often
slippery with mud and covered with debris, including nails and broken
glass.