BEFORE  Find out if you live in a flood-prone area from your local emergency management or county/city engineer. Ask whether your property is above or below the flood stage water level and learn about the history of flooding for your region.  Learn flood warning signs and your community alert signals.  Request information on preparing for floods and flash floods.  If you live in a frequently flooded area, stockpile emergency building materials. These include plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber nails, hammer and saw, pry bar, shovels, and sandbags.  Have check valves installed in building sewer traps to prevent flood waters from backing up in sewer drains. As a last resort, use large corks or stoppers to plug

Plan and Practice an Evacuation Route... This plan should include information on the safest routes to shelters. This plan should include information on the safest routes to shelters. Individuals living in flash flood areas should have several alternative routes. 

Be Prepared...Have disaster supplies on hand.  Flashlights and extra batteries  Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries  First aid kit and manual  Emergency food and water  Non-electric can opener  Essential medicines  cash, credit cards and sturdy shoes. Be ready to evacuate quickly if necessary.

 Develop an Emergency Communication Plan. In case family members are separated from one another during floods or flashfloods (a real possibility during the day when adults are at work and children are at school), have a plan for getting back together.  Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact." After a disaster, it's often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address, and phone number of the contact person.  Make sure that all family members know how to respond after a flood or flash flood. Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1, police, fire department, and which radio station to tune to for emergency information.

Learn about the National Flood Insurance Program. Ask your insurance agent about flood insurance. Homeowners policies do not cover flood damage