Know the terms used to describe flooding:

• Flood Watch: Flooding is possible. Stay tuned to NOAA radio or commercial radio or television for additional information.
• Flash Flood Watch: Flash flooding is possible. Move to higher ground. A flash flood could occur without any warning. Listen to NOAA radio or commercial radio or television for additional information.
• Flood Warning: Flooding is occurring or will occur soon. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Flash Flood Warning: A flash flood is occurring. Seek higher ground on foot immediately.
• Urban and Small Stream Advisory: Flooding of small streams, streets and low-lying areas is occurring.

Know Your Area

Identify any canals and dams in your area and determine whether they pose a hazard. Also, you should determine whether they could pose danger if you need to evacuate.

Contact

Call the City Engineering Department at 954-797-2282 to determine whether your property is in a flood-prone area. Learn the elevation level of your property. This will help you know how your property will be affected when flood levels are forecasted. Ask how you can protect your home from flooding.

Contact Broward County Emergency Management Division at 954-831-3900 to learn more about official flood warning signals. Learn what to do when you hear them. Purchase a N.O.A.A. Weather Radio with battery backup and a tone‑alert feature which automatically alerts you when a Watch or Warning is issued.

Family Preparations

Talk to your family about flooding. Plan a place to meet your family in case you are separated from one another in a disaster and cannot return home.

Choose an out-of-state contact for everyone to call to say they are okay. In some emergencies, calling out-of-state is possible even when local phone lines are down.

Determine how you would care for family members who may live elsewhere but might need your help in a flood. Determine any special needs your neighbors might have.

Assemble a disaster supplies kit. Include a battery-operated radio, flashlights and extra batteries, first aid supplies, sleeping supplies and clothing. Keep a stock of food and extra drinking water.

Know how to shut off electricity, gas and water at main switches and valves. Know where gas pilots are located and how the heating system works.

Insurance

You may want to consider purchasing flood insurance. Flood losses are not covered under homeowners’ insurance policies. Flood insurance is available in most communities from the National Flood Insurance Program. There is usually a five day waiting period before it takes effect. Flood insurance is available whether the building is in or out of the identified flood-prone area.

• Consider options for flood proofing your home.
• Make a record of your personal property. Take photographs of or videotape your belongings and store them in a safe place.
• Keep insurance policies, deeds, property records and other important papers in a safe place away from your home.