FLOODS OR FLASH FLOODS   Mitigation pays. It includes any activities that prevent an emergency, reduce the chance of an emergency happening, or lessen the damaging effects of unavoidable emergencies. Investing in mitigation now such as constructing barriers (levees) and purchasing flood insurance will help reduce the amount of structural damage to your home and financial loss from building and crop damage should a flood or flash flood occur.   BEFORE Learn if your neighborhood is affected by floods, seismic hazards, or landslides with King County iMap. If you live in a frequently flooded area, stockpile emergency building materials. Have check valves installed in building sewer traps to prevent flood waters from backing up in sewer drains. Plan and practice an evacuation route. Make sure all family members know how to turn off gas, electricity, and water; and also know the emergency radio station to listen for information. Learn about the National Flood Insurance Program. A flood “watch” means a flood is possible in your area. A flood “warning” means flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area. DURING A FLOOD WATCH Listen to 710AM or 1000AM for the latest emergency information. Store some water in jugs and the bath tub. Move valuables to higher ground. Be prepared to evacuate. DURING A FLOOD Get to higher ground. Get away from standing, flowing, or rising water. If you are driving and your car stalls, abandon your vehicle and head to higher ground. Listen to your emergency radio stations (710AM or 1000AM) and be ready to evacuate. AFTER Flood dangers do not end when the water begins to recede. Listen to a radio or television and do not return home until authorities indicate it is safe to do so. Remember to help your neighbor who may require special assistance – infants, elderly people, and people with disabilities. Inspect foundations for cracks or other damage. Stay out of a building if flood waters remain around the building. When entering buildings, use extreme caution. Look for fire hazards. Throw away food – including canned goods – that has come in contact with flood waters. Pump out flooded basements gradually (about one-third of the water per day) to avoid structural damage. Service damaged septic tanks, cesspools, pits, and leaching systems as soon as possible. Damaged sewage systems are health hazards. Inspect your utilities.