In the event that you may be informed you must leave your home, utmost care should be taken in getting away from the danger area. A bit of planning will go a long way in helping you. Be aware of any areas that have the potential for flash floods, such as drainage ditches or gullies in steep terrain — flash floods can sweep down and engulf you even if it is not raining where you are. Avoid these areas as you leave your neighborhood. Do not walk or drive through any running water. Rushing water that reaches the level of the bottom of a vehicle can sweep a vehicle away. If water is getting deeper as you drive along, even if the water is not moving, back out and find another way. If water is rising rapidly around a vehicle, abandon the vehicle as safely as possible and find high ground.
Once you’ve reached a location that can shelter you from flood waters and that appears will remain safe, stay there. Evacuate only if instructed to do so by authorities or if flood waters are directly menacing you and your family. Wait for information and permission before heading back home, even if the rain has ended. Know the answers to the following questions before you leave the shelter. What roads are safe? Is the water supply of the community safe to drink? Are there fires burning nearby? Are there any cordoned-off areas?
