It can also be caused by a significant and unexpected event (a dam breaking) or as a result of another hazard (earthquake, tsunami, hurricane or volcanic eruption). Flooding can occur if too much water accumulates from rainfall that cannot soak into the ground or evaporate quickly enough. Even a beaver dam can flood low-lying areas.

Flooding can cause a significant amount of damage. It can affect buildings, roads, bridges, cars, sewer systems, and many other types of structures. It can lead to epidemics and diseases through contaminated water.

Clean drinking water can become scarce. Crops and food supplies can become a problem if there is a shortage of food crops due to the loss of entire harvests. Trees can die from suffocation. Most importantly, people and animals can die due to drowning.

"Be Prepared" is a motto we should all keep in mind regarding emergency situations. Preparing for floods by having an emergency plan should be a priority for every adult.

Preparations should include:

? be aware of local community emergency plans

? be prepared to take any recommended action in order to reduce property damage and ensure personal safety

? during a flood, quick action is important - have a crank radio (no batteries needed) to receive ongoing flood information

? have an evacuation plan including different routes that can be taken out of the area if necessary

? keep a 72-hour emergency kit near the door and in the trunk of your vehicle for easy access

? apply weather protection sealant around basement windows and ground-level doors

? have downspouts a sufficient distance from your home so water flows away from it

? consider installing a sump pump in basement floor drains

? store important documents at a high level

? if you have a pet, include it in you emergency plan - take them with you whenever possible

When a flood is coming:

? turn off outside gas valve (have an appropriate wrench on hand) and furnace

? safeguard electrical, natural gas or propane heating equipment (if time)

? consider moving furniture, appliances and other belongings to floors above ground level

? properly dispose of toxic substances (pesticides and insecticides) to prevent pollution

? if time allows, plug basement sewer drains and toilet connections (after removing toilet bowls) with a wooden stopper

? disconnect eavestroughs that are connected to the house sewer

? NEVER attempt to shut off electricity if any water is present

? in a farm setting, leave animals unsheltered to avoid drowning in an enclosed area

During a flood:

? stay calm, level-headed and alert to your surroundings

? keep your radio on to find out any pertinent emergency information ? a crank radio is advisable (no batteries needed)

? keep a 72-hour emergency kit close at hand

? vacate your home when advised by local authorities

? follow routes specified by officials (no shortcuts - they could lead to blocked or dangerous areas)

? make arrangements for pets if you can't take them with you

? if time, leave a note (possibly in your mailbox) informing others where you went

? help others around you when help is needed

The emergency is not over when the floodwaters recede. After the initial disaster situation is over:

? check your property for hazards

? remove debris that has collected

? check drinking water for contamination - don't drink it until you know it is safe

? decontaminate your home (officials may provide advice on proper clean-up and decontamination and may assist if damage is serious)

? have the main electrical panel, appliances, and heating system cleaned, dried, and tested by a qualified technician before using them

? make sure the building is structurally safe ? watch for buckled walls or floors, holes in the floor, broken glass, etc.

? make any necessary revisions to your emergency plan to be better prepared the next time

Floods are the most frequent natural hazard in North Ameica. They can occur at any time of the year and can cause major damage. But an emerency situation does not have to be a total disaster if you plan ahead.

Be Prepared ? Before Disaster Strikes!