| What to do before a Flood |
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| Monday, 07 March 2011 10:11 |
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Preparation for a flood is the best method for minimizing injury or damage. There will be little time to move to protected areas once a flood is in the immediate vicinity. Follow these important steps to prepare yourself and your family for a flood: Learn the elevation level of your property and whether the land is flood-prone. This will help you know how your property will be affected when flood levels are forecasted. Identify dams in your area and determine whether they pose a hazard to you. Find out how to protect your home from flooding. Purchase a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Weather Radio with a battery backup and tone-alert feature. A NOAA (pronounced "Noah") radio will automatically alert you when a Flood Watch or Warning has been issued. Also purchase a battery-powered commercial radio and extra batteries as well. When skies are threatening or a flood watch has been issued for City of Vicksburg, listen to NOAA radio, local radio, or television newscasts for the latest information and special instructions from local officials. Learn community flood evacuation routes and how to find higher ground. Determine where you would go and how you would get there if you needed to evacuate. Keep your car fueled and in good condition in case evacuation is required. Talk to your family about flooding. Plan a place to meet your family in case you are separated. Determine the needs of family members or neighbors who may need your help during a flood. Choose an out-of-state contact for everyone to call to say they are okay. Gather emergency supplies and have them on hand in case a flood approaches. Keep tools, flashlights, a portable radio, batteries, a First Aid kit, fresh water, and non-perishable foods handy. Know how to shut off utilities. Know where gas pilots, water mains, and circuit breakers are located and how the heating and air-conditioning system works. Consider purchasing flood insurance. FLOOD LOSSES ARE NOT COVERED UNDER HOMEOWNER'S INSURANCE POLICIES. Flood insurance is available in most communities from the National Flood Insurance Program. There is usually a thirty (30) day waiting period before it takes effect. Flood insurance is available whether the building is in or out of the identified flood-prone area. For more information about floods and how to prepare for them, please call the City of Vicksburg's Building & Inspection Department at (601)634-4528. |
| Last Updated on Monday, 21 March 2011 12:36 |
