Floods happen fast. Flash floods can occur within minutes and sometimes without any sign of rain. There can be little time to react once a flooding disaster strikes.
“The best defense against a flood is a good offense,” said Clint Hickman, Maricopa County District 4 Supervisor. “Developing a game plan before something happens can save your life, the lives of your family and protect your property or business.”
Take Action Before a Flood:
Create a communications plan to stay in contact with your family and friends in the event of a disaster and determine a meeting place in case people become separated.
Assemble an emergency kit that includes food, drinking water, a first aid kit, necessary medications and supplies for your pets.
Identify an evacuation route. Where is water likely to collect on the roadways you most often travel? What is the fastest way to get to higher ground?
Check the weather. The media and the National Weather Service provide alerts and forecasts. The Flood Control District of Maricopa County (District) also has flood forecasts and weather information at www.fcd.maricopa.gov.
Prepare your home. Obtain required building permits from the proper local authorities to ensure your structures are built to withstand the drainage conditions impacting your site.
Keep materials like sandbags, plywood, and plastic sheeting on hand for protection from floodwaters and to make quick repairs after a severe storm. Clean out drainage ditches, gutters, culverts and pipes.
Secure or remove personal property that is in an area where storm water flows.
Move your animals and livestock to high ground. Have a professional install check-valves to prevent floodwaters from backing up into the drains of your home.
Contact your insurance agent to check your flood insurance coverage. If it is likely your home will flood, don’t wait to be ordered to leave; evacuate yourself.