Take the proper steps to be prepared this flood season

Published 12:57 pm Thursday, October 2, 2008

The following information was provided by the city of North Bend.

If in danger of impending floodwater, action may be taken to protect lives and property immediately. The following are recommendations for before, during and after a flood.

Before a flood:

* Know if you are in a flood-prone area. Call the city of North Bend at (425) 888-5633 if you live in city limits, or King County Building and Land Development at (206) 296-6640 if you live in unincorporated King County.

* Assemble a disaster supply kit.

* Plan for evacuation. Learn the safest route to high ground.

* Consider purchasing flood insurance.

* Keep all insurance policies and your household inventory in a safe place.

* Talk to neighbors and share information on preparedness and previous experiences. Remember, the next flood can always be bigger than floods you have seen before.

* Minimize flood damage: Store valuables at higher elevations (second story if possible). Store household chemicals above flood levels. Ensure that underground storage tanks are fully sealed and secure.

* Have access to sand bags and sand, if needed.

* Keep street drains and storm grates free of leaves and other debris.

During the flood:

* To ensure safety, leave the area and find shelter on higher ground.

* Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, local radio or television stations for information.

* Leave when advised to do so by fire or police personnel. They may not be able to return to help you.

* Flood waters can rise rapidly so prepare to evacuate before water reaches your property.

* Move to a safe area before access is cut off. Take emergency supplies, blankets and dry clothes if possible.

* If time permits, turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve if evacuating. Do not touch electrical equipment unless it is in a dry area.

* Secure your home. If time permits, secure items located outside the house.

* Fill the bathtub with water in case water becomes contaminated or services are cut off. Sterilize the bathtub first.

* Stay away from moving water. Moving water six inches deep can sweep you off your feet.

* When deep flooding is likely, permit the flood waters to flow freely into your basement to avoid structural damage to the foundation and the house.

* Do NOT attempt to drive over flooded roads. The depth of water is not always obvious. The road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped. If you car stalls in a flooded area; abandon the car and walk to safety in the direction you came from.

After the flood:

* Before re-entering your home, check for structural damage that could cause the building to collapse. Be cautious of potential gas leaks, electrical shorts and live wires.

* When re-entering a building, use flashlights rather than lanterns (in case of gas leaks). Be aware of areas where flood waters have receded and may have weakened road surfaces.

* Stay away from and report downed power lines.

* Continue listening to the radio for event and assistance information.

* Consider health and safety needs. Wash your hands frequently with soap and clean water if you come in contact with flood waters. Follow procedures for safe clean-up of household items, food, water supply and property.

* Throw away food that has come in contact with flood waters.

* Remove and empty sandbags. Do not dump sand into the river, streams or their banks. Store for future use.

* Contact your insurance agent for flood loss claims.

* Take photos of or videotape your belongings and your home.

* Don’t throw away damaged goods until an official inventory has been taken.