When severe flooding threatens your area, there are things you can do to protect your family and property. Here are some actions you can take:

*    Do not walk or drive through standing or flowing water.  There might be sinkholes or live electrical wires
*    Avoid power lines that have fallen.
*    Turn off the power in your house, including gas tanks.
*    Watch your step in damaged areas. Slip and fall accidents are a leading cause of injuries after a disaster occurs.
*    Use caution when approaching animals after a disaster.  Even domesticated animals can react to stress by biting.
*    Do not smoke or use open flames in your house until you are sure no gas leaks exist.
*    Even if you plan to stay home, have an evacuation kit ready just in case.
*    If you have to leave your house, let out of town relatives know where you are going.