The current flash flood warning (April 18, 2016) asks all to get to high ground immediately in the Galveston area, and to be aware of runoff and flooding of streams, creeks, rivers, and low level areas. The flash flood warning means flooding is imminent or concurrent. Stay safe, and take adequate measures to protect your home, family, and possessions.
When a flash flood warning is issued, there’s no time to second guess your response. Flood water can lead to structural damage to your home, your possessions, and, more importantly, threaten the safety of you and your family. It’s essential to be prepared with an emergency supply kit and communications plan. Here’s what you’ll need.
Emerency Supply Kit
Your emergency supply kit is what will keep you and your family comfortable and safe for a minimum of 72 hours. Here’s what you need:
- Emergency water kit: Store 1 gallon of water per person per day. Half the amount is for drinking, the other half for sanitation purposes. (Example: Family of 4 for 72 hours = 12 gallons)
- Food: A three-day supply of non-perishable foods (canned goods, protein bars, fruit snacks, etc). Don’t forget the can opener!
- Duct tape
- Scissors
- Local Maps
- Whistle
- Flares
- Lighter/Matches
- Battery powered radio
- Coloring book and crayons for children
- Card deck
Communications Plan
A communications plan is really about know where to go, who to call, and what to do in an emergency situation. There will be not time to dig for phone numbers, or decide on a meeting place after a disaster hits. Here are the steps you should take in creating a plan for the family.
1. Know Where Alerts Come From
The current flood warning was issued regionally in the Galveston area by the National Weather Service. Learn how to receive alerts and stay up to with all weather related emergencies at ready.gov.
2. Discuss A Plan With Family
Set a time to discuss emergency situations with your family and kids
3. What You Will Need From Each Family Member
- Exchange phone numbers, emails, addresses and have them written down and stored in emergency supply kits and backpacks (during an emergency cell service could be disconnected)
- Exchange medical information, including doctors numbers, facilities, and insurance information
4. Decide Where to Meet In an Emergency
- Decide where to meet in an emergency for all emergency situations (fire, flood, tornado, storm). This should be a familiar place that is easy to access and won’t be forgotten. Examples include:
- meeting at a mailbox in your neighborhood
- a library or community center in town, or
- the home of a relative or family friend outside the city
5. Review the Plan
Every 6 months or so, review the the emergency supply kit and restock depleted supplies. Discuss the communications plan and make updates as necessary.
H2O Is Your Solution
An emergency is no time to start planning. Planning begins now. After an emergency is over, you may have damage to your home or business; that’s where H2O Solutions can take care of you. Call our emergency number 24 hours a day for a quick response: 1-800-681-2379. Learn more about our services and how we can get your life back on track.
