Disaster Preparedness
- Floods and the El Nino Condition
The 1995 Winter Storms serve as a
vivid reminder that Laguna Beach can be hit with storms
sufficient to result in local flooding.
Floods are the most common
widespread of all natural hazards. In Southern California
flooding is usually associated with high intensity winter
storms, which may begin as early as November.
In the case of Laguna Beach,
flooding usually means fast-moving water in Laguna and
Aliso Canyons as runoff from upstream development moves
to the Pacific Ocean.
In addition to the hazards normally
associated with storms and floods are the residual
effects of water-saturated hillsides giving way as
landslides.
What to do before a Flood
- Learn the elevation level of
your property. This will help you know how your
property will be affected when flood levels are
forecasted.
- Be prepared to evacuate. See
the Evacuation chapter.
- Talk with your family about
flooding. Plan a place to meet your family in
case you are separated and cannot return home.
Choose an out-of-state contact for everyone to
call to say they are Okay.
- Determine any special needs
your neighbors might have.
- Assemble a disaster supplies
kit. Include a battery-operated radio,
flashlights and extra batteries, first aid
supplies, sleeping supplied and clothing. Keep a
stock of food and extra drinking water. For more
information, see Emergency Supplies.
- Consult with your utility
providers and learn how to shut off electricity,
gas and water at main switches and valves. Know
where gas pilots are located and how the heating
system works.
- Consider purchasing flood
insurance. Flood losses are not covered under
homeowners' insurance policies. Flood insurance
is available from the Nation Flood Insurance
Program. Flood Insurance is available whether the
building is in or out of the identified
flood-prone area.
- Make a record of your personal
property. Take photographs of or videotape your
belongings and store them in a safe place.
- Keep insurance policies, deeds
and property records in a safe place away from
your home.
What to do during Heavy Rains
- If there is any possibility of
a flood occurring, move immediately to higher
ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
- Listen to your radio or
television for information.
- Be aware of streams, drainage
channels and areas known to flood suddenly.
- Be prepared to evacuate. See
Evacuation Chapter. Secure your home. Move
essential items to the upper floors of your
house.
- Fill the bathtub with water in
case water becomes contaminated or services cut
off. Sterilize bathtubs first.
- Stay away from flood waters.
- Do not walk in moving waters.
Six inches of moving water can knock you off your
feet. If you must walk in a flooded area, walk
where the water is not moving. Use a stick to
check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
- Do not drive into flooded
areas. If flood waters rise around your car,
abandon the car and move to higher ground, if you
can do so safely. You and your vehicle can be
quickly swept away as flood waters rise.
What to do after a Flood
- Stay away from flood waters.
The water may be contaminated with gasoline, oil
or raw sewage.
- Stay away from moving water.
Moving water only from six inches deep can sweep
you off your feet.
- Stay away from downed power
lines and report them to the utility company.
- Continue listening to a
battery-powered radio for information about where
to get assistance for housing, clothing or food.
Outreach programs are often available.
- Consider your family's health
and safety needs. Wash your hands frequently with
soap and clean water if you come in contact with
flood waters. Throw away food that has come in
contact with flood waters. Listen for news
reports to learn whether the community's water
supply is safe to drink.
- Contact your insurance agent.
If your policy covers your situation, an adjuster
will be assigned to visit your home. To prepare:
- Take photos of or videotape your belongings and your home.
- Separate damaged and undamaged belongings
- Locate your financial records
- Keep detailed records of cleanup costs
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