Flood Safety
Preparedness and Awareness
Flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in the United.States. Flood conditions can develop very quickly, often occurring without warning.
Even just six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. In water that is two feet deep, most cars can be swept away by the current.
Being prepared and knowing what to do in case of a flood will help to protect you and your family when these dangerous situations occur.
At left, flood debris on the Kansas River during the flood of 1903. (photo courtesy of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration)
Flood Safety and Awareness
Awareness about what to do when flooding strikes could be vital to your survival. Foremost, you should never attempt to drive through flooded areas. If you do drive into water and your vehicle stalls, you should abandon it and head for high ground immediately. If you know a flood is headed your way, you can make sure your family disaster supplies kit is ready in case you lose power and need a stock of food. You can also fill bathtubs and all types of empty containers with fresh water in preparation for these events, since loss of potable water is often a problem in flooded areas. Pay attention to weather radio reports in order to help protect yourself.
Links to More Information
Below you will find a number of links to the latest information about flood safety issues:
National Weather Service Flood and Flash Flood Preparedness Guide
Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Flood Information Page
FEMA National Flood Insurance Program
Kansas Emergency Management's (KDEM) Community and Family Preparedness Information