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Policy: AUS Policy Title: Revision Date: Page 18 of 22 AUS - 008 Emergency Response Policy 8110118 FLOODS AND FLASH FLOODS Floods are the most common and widespread of all-natural disasters. Many communities in the United States experience some degree of flooding after spring rains, heavy thunderstorms or winter snow thaws. Most floods develop slowly over a period of days. Flash floods, however, are like walls of water that develop in a matter of minutes. Flash floods caused by intense storms or dam failure. Inspect areas in your facility subject to flooding. Identify property and equipment to move to a higher location in case of a flood. The National Weather Service describes flood conditions as: Flood Watch - Flooding is possible. Be prepared to evacuate. Tune to local radio and television stations for additional information. Flood Warning - Flooding is already occurring or will occur soon. Take precautions at once. Be prepared to go to higher ground. If advised, evacuate immediately. On the Road Nearly half of all flood and flash flood fatalities are automobile/vehicle related. When a vehicle ( stalls or travels through floodwaters, the water's force transfers to the car. As the water rises, a greater "pushing" force applies to the car. Vehicles will also have a tendency to float as the water rises. Two feet of water will carry away most automobiles. NEVER ATTEMPT TO DRIVE THROUGH FLOODWATERS OF UNKNOWN DEPTH. If you are in a vehicle during a flood: 1. Watch for flooding at highway dips, bridges, and low areas. 2. Seek alternate routes to avoid rapidly flooding roads. 3. If your vehicle stalls in water that is rising rapidly, abandon the vehicle and immediately seek high ground. After the Flood Flood dangers do not end when the waters begin to recede. Be aware of gas leaks, electrical hazards, structural damage, and unsafe drinking water. AVOID ELECTROCUTION HAZARDS. Do not turn on any lights or use any flooded electrical appliances until they have been determined safe for use. Turn off the main electrical switch before checking electrical circuits. Do not drink water from any water supply until it told by a public health agency. THUNDERSTORMS AND LIGHTNING A severe thunderstorm can create potential hazards such as heavy rains, flash flooding, strong winds and lightning. Any one of these hazards has the potential for creating a dangerous situation. Although thunderstorms occasionally happen in the winter, they are more likely to occur during a hot day when dark, heavy clouds begin to form. The temperature will drop suddenly with an increase in gusty winds. Your best protection is to get inside, taking shelter in a sturdy building. Turn on your battery- operated radio in case there is news of a tornado watch; generally, the major hazard will come from lightning.