5 Steps to prepare for any disaster
Step 1: Get alerts. Sign up for warnings at mdready.maryland.gov
Step 2: Make a Plan. Discuss how loved ones will evacuate and reconnect.
Step 3: Pack a go bag. Pack important documents ahead of time. Be ready to grab keys, wallet, phone/charger, medication and personal items.
Step 4: Make a stay box. Pack supplies for 3 days at home with no water or power: food that won’t spoil, water, plastic bags/bucket for toilet, flashlight, radio and batteries.
Step 5: Help others. Be ready to assist those who need help.
Before a Flood
- Move valuables to higher shelves or floors.
- Keep nearby storm drains clear of debris.
- Get plastic tarps and sandbags to block floodwater.
- Learn the best escape route to higher ground.
- Plan transportation to get everyone, including pets and livestock, to safety.
- Keep your car’s gas tank at least half full.
- Plan for power outages, especially for any medical devices powered by electricity and refrigerated medicines. Charge devices and backup batteries.
- Be ready to shelter in place with some gallon jugs of water, food you could eat if there is no power, and other items that you use every day.
- Talk to neighbors about how you could work together to help keep each other safe.
During a Flood
- Follow reliable sources of information. Dial 2-1-1 to get help, find shelter, or ask questions.
- Leave immediately when told by officials to go.
- Never walk into moving water. Just six inches of moving water can make you fall. Never drive into flooded areas. A foot of water will float many vehicles; two feet can sweep away a truck.
- If trapped inside by floodwaters, move to higher floors or roof, but not attics. Call 9-1-1.
- Avoid contact with floodwater.
- Stay alert for mudslides.
Evacuation Order = Serious threat. Get ready or go now if people or animals need extra time.
After a Flood
WAIT UNTIL OFFICIALS SAY ITS SAFE TO GO HOME!
- Check in with family, friends, and neighbors. If cell towers are down or overrun, try texting.
- Wait until officials say it is safe to go home. If you can’t go home, dial 2-1-1 to find safe shelter.
- Beware of falling trees and damaged structures.
- Check for gas leaks and downed power lines. If gas or electrical appliances were flooded, check them for safety before using.
- Listen for official announcements on the safety of public water. Wells that flooded should be tested and disinfected.
- Be aware potential hazardous chemicals may have been moved or buried by flooding.
- If you have flood damage, contact your local emergency manager. Find other recovery resources on government websites.
Resources
- Maryland Department of Emergency Management State guides, alerts and resources at mdready.maryland.gov
- Dial 2-1-1 Access to professionals who can direct you to help. Visit 211md.org for more information.
- Dial 7-1-1 Maryland Relay serves Marylanders who have difficulty using a standard telephone.
- Dial 9-1-1 FOR EMERGENCIES ONLY: Such as disaster response, flood rescues, medical emergencies.
- National Weather Service (NWS) For active alerts, radar images, forecast maps and resources, visit weather.gov Follow @NWS for updates
- Ready.gov ready.gov/recovering-disaster Federal guidance on recovery and safety
- Maryland Know Your Zone To find your evacuation zone, go to, KnowYourZoneMd.com
