After a flood
First steps
Your home has been flooded. Although floodwaters may be down in some areas, many dangers still exist. The following are a few things to remember in the first few days after a flood.
- Roads may still be closed because they have been damaged or are covered with water. Remember that barricades have been placed for your protection. If you come upon a barricade or flooded road, go another way.
- Keep listening to the radio for news about what to do, where to go, or places to avoid.
- Emergency workers will be assisting people in flooded areas. You can help them by staying off the roads and out of the way.
If you must walk or drive in flooded areas:
- Stay on firm ground. Moving water only six inches deep can sweep you off your feet.
- Avoid standing water. It may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
- Use caution. Floodwaters often erode roads and walkways. Flood debris may hide animals and broken bottles, and it also can become very slippery.
- Play it safe. Additional flooding or flash floods can occur. Listen for local warnings and information.
- If your car stalls in rising waters, get out immediately and climb to higher ground.
Cleaning up and repairing your home
Flood dangers do not end when the water begins to recede. Listen to the radio or TV and do not return home until authorities say it is safe to do so. When you return home be sure to follow these safety tips:
- If your home, apartment or business has suffered damage, file a claim with your insurance company right away.
- DO NOT use matches, cigarette lighters or any other open flame in or around structures since gas may still be trapped inside. Use a flashlight to light your way.
- Turn off the electricity at the main breaker or fuse box, even if the power is off in your neighborhood. DO NOT turn power back on until an electrician has inspected your system for safety.
- Floodwaters pick up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms and factories. When your home is flooded, protect your health by cleaning up your house right away. Throw out foods and medicine that may have been in floodwater.
- Until authorities say your water supply is safe, vigorously boil water for drinking and food preparation for five minutes before using.
- Be careful walking around. After a flood, steps and floors are often slippery with mud and covered with debris, including nails and broken glass.
Relief assistance
There are many government, non-profit, volunteer, and faith-based organizations that can assist individuals with true needs who have had devastating losses and need help right away. These resources can be accessed by calling 211 from a telephone. For Clark County residents who may not have 211 service on their landline or cell phone, please call (360) 694-8899. You can also search for 211 resource information on the Web at www.irissoft.com/INFO/default.asp.
Federal aid
If you have damage, file a claim with your insurance company. Be sure to save all documentation related to damages, including estimates, receipts, and pictures if you have them, in case they are needed. If our community is awarded disaster assistance, this documentation will help you when applying for aid.
Review information before the next flood happens
- Protect your property
- 100-year flood
- Causes of flooding in Clark County
