ARE YOU READY FOR A FLOOD OR FLASH FLOOD?
Here is what you can do in such emergencies:

• Know what to expect

• Know your area's flood risk. If unsure, call your local American Red Cross Chapter at (831)462-2281. If it has been raining hard for several hours, or steadily raining for several days, be alert to the possibility of a flood.

• Floods can take several hours to days to develop.

• Flash floods can take only a few minutes to a few hours to develop 

• A flash flood WATCH means flash flooding is possible in your area.

• A flash flood WARNING means a flash flood is occurring or will occur very soon.

• Prepare a Home Flood Plan
• Check your homeowner's or renter's insurance to see if it covers flooding. If not, find out how to get flood insurance.

• Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box.

Assemble a flood safety kit containing the following:

• First Aid Kit

• Canned food and a non-electric can opener

• Bottled water

• Rubber boots and rubber gloves

• Battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries

• Identify where you could go if told to evacuate. Chose several places; a friend's home in another town, a motel or a shelter.

When a flood WATCH is issued:

• Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home.

• Fill your car's gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued.

When a flood WARNING is issued:

• Listen to local radio and television stations for information and advice. If told to evacuate, do so as soon as possible.

When a flash flood WATCH is issued:

• Be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice.

• Or if you think a flash flood has already started, evacuate immediately. You may have only seconds to escape. Act quickly!

• Move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks, and storm drains. Do not drive around barricades, they are there for your safety.

• If you car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.