It’s Flood Safety Week, so it only seems natural that Unprepared Ursula is at it again and this week she has managed to get herself caught in a flood. In fact, she may even be in New Jersey or Fargo, North Dakota, where Red Cross volunteers (including a few from St. Louis) are currently working to provide relief to those affected by spring flooding. Luckily for Ursula, the Red Cross’s Team Preparedness is here with the answers to her flood questions.

How can I protect myself in a flood?
Regardless of how a flood occurs, the rule for being safe is simple: head for higher ground and stay away from floodwater. Even a shallow depth of fast-moving floodwater produces more force than most people imagine. It is exceedingly dangerous to try to walk, swim, or drive in floodwater. Two feet (.06 meters) of water will carry away most vehicles, including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pickup trucks. You can protect yourself best by being prepared and having time to act. You can protect your home best by taking measures to reduce potential flood damage (called mitigation) and buying flood insurance in advance.

What should I do if I’m caught during a flood or flash flood?
If you are outdoors, you should stay out of areas subject to flooding. Climb to high ground and stay there. And if you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around, and go another way. If you are driving, you should avoid already flooded areas, and areas subject to sudden flooding, stay away from underpasses, and turn around and find another route if you come upon rapidly rising water.

What should I do after a flood or flash flood?

•Get medical care at the nearest hospital or clinic, if necessary.
•Help people who require special assistance.
•Stay away from damaged areas.
•Continue to listen to NOAA Weather Radio or local radio or television station and return home only when authorities indicate it is safe to do so.
•Stay out of any building if floodwater remains around the building.
•Avoid entering any building (home, business, or other) before local officials have said it is safe to do so.
•Report any broken utility lines to the appropriate authorities.
•Avoid smoking inside buildings.
•When entering a building use extreme caution.
•Wear long pants, a long sleeved shirt, and sturdy shoes.
•Use battery-powered lanterns or flashlights when examining buildings.
•Examine walls, floors, doors, staircases, and windows to make sure that the building is not in danger of collapsing.
•Inspect foundations for cracks or other damage.
•Look for fire hazards.
•Check for gas leaks.
•Look for electrical system damage.