Flooding is the nation’s most common natural disaster, causing billions of dollars in damage while threatening lives and property in every state.

Some floods develop slowly, over days, but flash floods can develop in minutes without visible signs of rain. Flooding can also occur when a dam or levee breaks.

These recommendations can help you protect your family and home.

• Create an emergency supply kit. It should include nonperishable food, bottled water, a battery-powered radio, extra flashlights and batteries, a first aid kit, and essential medications, along with copies of important documents such as driver’s licenses, Social Security cards, proof of residence, insurance policies, wills, deeds, and birth and marriage certificates.
• Make a family emergency plan. Because your family may not be together when disaster strikes, it’s important to have a plan on how to contact one another and what to do in case of an emergency.

  You should also inquire about emergency plans at your workplace and your children’s day care centers and schools.

  Notify caregivers and babysitters about your plan. Make plans for your pets, as they often are not allowed in emergency shelters.

• Be Informed. Familiarize yourself with these terms to help identify a flood hazard:
  • Flood Watch. Flooding is possible.
  • Flash Flood Watch. Flash flooding is possible.
  • Flood Warning. Flooding is occurring or will occur soon; if advised to evacuate, do so at once.
  • Flash Flood Warning. A flash flood is occurring; seek higher ground on foot immediately.
• Prepare yourself. If a flood is likely in your area, listen to the radio or television for information. If you must prepare to evacuate, do the following:
  • Secure your home. If you have time, move essential items to an upper floor.
  • Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
  If you have to leave your home, do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground.

After a Flood
Follow these guidelines after a flood:

• Avoid floodwater; it’s likely to be contaminated.
• Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe.
• Stay out of any building surrounded by floodwaters.
• Clean and disinfect everything that got wet.
• Listen to the news to learn if the area’s water supply is safe to drink.

For more information, visit the Federal Emergency Management Agency at www.fema.gov and search for “flood.”

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