Flooding

Before a flood

• Assemble a disaster-supply kit.

• Make sure everyone knows the emergency phone numbers and when to call them.

• Learn evacuation routes and emergency-shelter locations.

• Make arrangements for housing should you need to evacuate.

• Establish meeting places and phone numbers in case family members are separated.

• Teach all family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity and water lines.

If a flood is imminent

• Store valuables and electronics higher on the ground floor, on the second story or in your attic.

• Ensure underground storage tanks are sealed and secure.

• Learn how to use sandbags and where you can get them.

• Keep storm drains free of leaves and other debris.

During and after a flood

• Don't drive or walk into flooded areas and avoid contact with floodwater.

• Safely turn off electricity to flooded area.

• Stop using plumbing that drains to the sewer system.

• If you have been exposed to floodwater or wastewater, change clothing and shoes and wash affected skin.

• Evacuate damaged buildings.

• Help neighbors, especially the elderly or disabled.

• Monitor the radio for instructions or notifications of shelters and medical aid stations.

More flood safety tips
seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2008382069_webfloodsafety12m.html

USGS: State map of flood and high flow conditions
waterwatch.usgs.gov/?m=flood&r=wa&w=map

Green River Flood Evacuation Routes (PDF)
seattletimes.nwsource.com/ABPub/2010/01/26/2010894751.pdf

King County flood-warning line: River flows, flood-crest information, sandbag distribution — 206-296-8200 or 800-945-9263
kingcounty.gov/environment/waterandland/flooding/warning-system/phones.aspx

King County flooding services: What to do before, during and after a flood
kingcounty.gov/flood

National Flood Insurance Program: 800-611-6122
fema.gov/business/nfip

Pierce County flood alerts
http://www.piercecountywa.org/pc/services/home/environ/water/general/flood_alert_info.htm

Snohomish County flood warming system
http://www.co.snohomish.wa.us/PWApp/SWM/floodwarn/

Northwest river forecast center
http://www.nwrfc.noaa.gov/

Public Health- Seattle & King County: Cleaning a basement after a flood
www.kingcounty.gov/healthservices/health/preparedness/disaster/flood-english.aspx