What to do before a flood

• Buildings should be avoided in flood prone areas.
• Water heaters, electric panels should be kept at upper floors.
• Check valves should be installed on time to prevent unwanted water from backing up into the sewerage system of your homes.
• Be in contact with community officials to find out their plans for stopping flood water of the houses in your community.
• To avoid seepage, seal your basement walls with waterproof compounds.

If a flood is likely to hit your area, you should:

• Listen to the radio or television for information. As PDMA shares all updates with them.
• Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
• Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain.

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should:

• Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. 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, remember these evacuation tips:

• Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
• Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away.

Tuesday, 5. January 2016