• Stockpile emergency building materials

• Install check valves in sewer traps to prevent flood waters from backing up in sewer drains

• Plan and practice an evacuation route

• Have disaster supplies on hand including, flashlights and additional batteries.  A wireless, battery operated radio is very important.  First aid kit and manual complete with all supplies.  Emergency food and water, hand can opener, necessary medicines, cash and credit cards,  and sturdy shoes.

• Develop an emergency communication plan in case of separation

• Ask an out-of-state relative to serve as the "family contact"

• Teach family members how and when to turn off the gas, electricity, and water and teach children how and when to call 9-1-1

If indoors:

• Turn on battery operated radio to get latest emergency information
• Get pre-assembled emergency supplies
·   Fill all tubs, sinks and any kind of containers you have laying around the house with clean water in case water gets polluted.
· Move all your valuable things to high places like pictures because you can not replace them.
• If told to leave, do so immediately.

If outdoors:

• Climb to high ground and stay there
• Avoid walking through any floodwaters.
• If in a car, turn around and go another way; if your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.

During an evacuation:

• Help neighbors whom may need assistance

• Use extreme caution when entering buildings

• Inspect foundations for cracks or other damage and examine walls, floors, doors, and windows to make sure that the building is not in danger of collapsing

• Watch out for animals, especially poisonous snakes, that may have come into your home with flood waters

• Watch for loose plaster and ceilings that could fall

• Take pictures of damage for insurance claims

• Look for fire hazards

• Throw away all food (including canned) that has come in contact with flood waters

• Pump out flooded basements gradually (~ 1/3 amount of water per day) to avoid structural damage