Flood Preparation Plan

Flooding can occur suddenly and cause significant damage to property and pose serious risks to life and safety. Proper preparation is key to minimizing these risks and ensuring the safety of you, your family, and your community. The Riverton Volunteer Fire Department (RVFD) encourages all residents to take proactive steps in preparing for potential floods, especially during high-risk seasons.

Primary Objectives

The primary purpose of a flood preparation plan is to safeguard lives and reduce property damage. This involves identifying flood risks, creating an emergency response plan, and taking preventive measures to minimize damage before a flood occurs.

Flood Risk Assessment

• Know Your Flood Zone: Use local resources or flood maps to determine if your home or business is located in a flood-prone area. Being aware of your flood risk is the first step in preparing for a potential disaster.
• Monitor Weather Alerts: Stay informed about weather conditions through reliable sources such as the National Weather Service. Sign up for local emergency notifications and monitor flood warnings.

Emergency Preparation

• Create an Evacuation Plan: Identify multiple evacuation routes from your home or business, and designate a safe meeting place for family members in case of separation. Ensure that everyone knows how to reach higher ground quickly.
• Prepare an Emergency Kit: Assemble a disaster supply kit that includes essential items such as:
  • Non-perishable food and water (enough for 3 days per person)
  • Flashlights and extra batteries
  • First-aid supplies
  • Medications and important documents (in waterproof containers)
  • Personal hygiene items and clothing
  • Cash, as ATMs and credit card machines may not work during power outages
• Secure Important Documents: Keep vital documents such as birth certificates, insurance policies, and medical records in a waterproof container or digitally stored in a cloud-based system.

Property Protection

• Install Flood Barriers: If your property is located in a flood-prone area, consider installing barriers such as sandbags or water-filled flood barriers to direct water away from your home or business.
• Elevate Appliances and Electrical Systems: Raise electrical outlets, switches, and appliances like furnaces and water heaters above potential flood levels. Relocate valuable items to higher floors or elevated areas in your home.
• Clear Drains and Gutters: Ensure that gutters, downspouts, and storm drains are clear of debris so water can flow freely away from your property.

During a Flood

• Evacuate Immediately: If authorities issue an evacuation order, leave your home immediately and head to higher ground. Do not wait until the water starts rising.
• Avoid Floodwaters: Never attempt to walk or drive through floodwaters. As little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet, and two feet of water can sweep a vehicle away.
• Listen to Emergency Services: Stay tuned to local authorities for updates on the situation. Follow the instructions of emergency responders and be prepared to adapt your plan based on evolving conditions.

Post-Flood Safety

• Wait for Clearance: Do not return to your home or business until local authorities have declared it safe to do so. Floodwaters may carry dangerous debris, and there may be unseen structural damage.
• Inspect Your Property: Once it is safe, carefully inspect your property for damage. Avoid standing water, as it could be contaminated or electrically charged. Document any damage for insurance claims.
• Report Safety Hazards: If you notice any hazards such as downed power lines or gas leaks, report them to local authorities immediately.

Community Collaboration

The RVFD works closely with local emergency services to provide support during flood events. We encourage residents to work together and help neighbors who may need assistance, especially the elderly, disabled, or those with young children. By working as a community, we can better withstand the challenges of flooding and protect our town.

For more information on flood preparedness or assistance with emergency planning, please contact the Riverton Volunteer Fire Department at 307-856-8248 or via email at secretary@rivertonfire.com.