A flood is an overflow of water that submerges dry land. If the water reaches land that is populated by people, such as a village, it is considered to be a natural disaster. Floods usually occur near large bodies of water, such as a lake or river. When a storm causes the water levels to rise, the water may over flow the boundaries of the river and lake and spread to areas of land that are otherwise dry.

Flood safety knowledge is important because the amount of damage and loss of life can be devastating. Flood safety refers to the ways in which flood damage and danger are lessened. There are many ways in which flood safety and flood disaster preparedness can be practiced.

What is the Difference Between Flood Watch and Flood Warning?

When the media reports the threat of floods happening in your area, they may say there is a flood warning or flood watch. While this may seem like the same terms that may be used interchangeably, they are not. A flood watch is when a flood or flash flood is possible in the area in which you live. A flood or flash flood warning refers to flooding that is already happening or WILL occur in your area. Knowing this difference is important in flood disaster preparedness planning.

Steps to Do During a Flood Watch or Warning:
Stay informed:
Make sure that you have access to a television or radio and is tuned to a local news station that provides weather information. They will have up-to-date information for you and your area about possible flood warnings and the progress of storm that may be causing the flood. The internet may also be a valuable source to provide instant information as it breaks.

Evacuation:
Flood disaster preparedness means being ready and willing to evacuate at a moment’s notice. While you are keeping yourself informed with lines of communication such as television and radio, you should always keep in mind that you may need to leave your house very soon and quickly. When outlining your disaster preparedness planning, be sure that you have everything you need in the event of a flood warning and can leave immediately if necessary.

Stay Away From Flood Water:
In flood disaster planning, make sure that you do not put yourself in a position where you come in contact with flood water. The water can be highly dangerous, even in just six inches of water, which could sweep you off your feet.

Flood Warning:
Once you receive a flood warning, head to higher ground immediately. This means that a flood is currently in progress or is about to happen.

Flood Disaster Preparedness Supplies:
It is important in your flood disaster preparedness planning that you have the right supplies in the event of a flood. Remember that food and water should always be at the top of your list:
• Water
• Food
• Flashlight
• Battery-powered radio
• Extra batteries for radio
• First aid kit
• Medications as needed
• Extra cash
• Cell phone
• Maps of the surrounding area