• During flooding, it is best to go to higher ground.flood image by dinostock from Fotolia.com
  
  During a flood, there are activities that you should consider for safety and emergency measures. If you live in an area prone to flooding, or you are aware that flooding might occur, preparation is vital. During a flood, the safety of you and your family is the most important consideration. Emotional and spiritual needs are also of importance.
  
  

Be Aware and Listen

• Listen to the radio or television for information on evacuation and relief plans. Realize that flash flooding can occur suddenly and without warning. If there is any possibility of flash flooding, gather your emergency supplies, then move to higher ground. Don't wait for specific instructions to move. Streams, drainage channels and canyons are most prone to flash flooding.
  
  

Secure Your Home

• Make sure that your home is secure inside and out. If you have any outdoor furniture, bring it inside. If your house is at ground level, then put the most necessary items to the top floors. Turn off your utilities at the main switches and valves if it is necessary, or if you receive instructions to do so. Disconnect all your electrical appliances during flooding. Remember that water conducts electricity, so don't needlessly wade through water in the home or basement or allow appliances to run standing in water.
  
  If flooding is due to hurricanes or typhoons, board up windows of the house with plywood or other suitable material. Make sure that your pets are safe and secure.
  
  

Evacuation and Water

• Safety is the primary concern. The city of Lincoln, California, advises its citizens to be prepared to evacuate before the flood reaches your home rather than after.
  
  When evacuating, don't walk through moving water. The appearance of water depth can be deceptive. To the extent possible, avoid flooded areas, especially areas that are more than knee deep. As little as six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you aren't sure about the depth of the water, use a stick to see how deep it is.
  
  Don't drive through flooded areas. If your car is flooded, abandon it. Six inches of water can cause many cars to loose control or stall. Twelve inches of water can cause many cars to float and two feet of water can carry away most cars.
  
  

Helping Neighbors

• Don't forget your neighbors during flood relief efforts. Don't assume that they are safe or are knowledgeable of the situation. Efforts to help neighbors are long-remembered.
  
  

Keep Spiritually and Emotionally Strong and Balanced

• flood image by dinostock from Fotolia.com
  
  During floods in Europe in 2002, the former West German chancellor Helmut Schmidt was asked what help victims needed. He stated: "People need food and shelter, they need some money in their pockets, and they need spiritual care."
  
  Keeping yourself spiritually and emotionally strong during flooding is of benefit. Don't panic or give up. If flooding is prolonged, continue to engage in both physical survival activities, as well as activities which keep you spiritually strong, balanced and focused.