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13 <br /> • Shutting off the gas and electricity to any structure that has a history of <br /> being flooded. <br /> • Moving valuable contents out of'harms way'. <br /> There are also some basic safety tips you should keep in mind during flood <br /> conditions: <br /> a. Prepare, in advance, a survival kit with bottled water, food, and <br /> medical supplies (i.e. prescription medication, basic first-aid items, <br /> etc.). Your survival kit should have sufficient stockpiles to last you for <br /> a minimum of 72 hours after a storm event. <br /> b. Have a battery, or crank handled, emergency weather radio available <br /> to listen for news/information on storm events and conditions in the <br /> area. <br /> c. Do not walk or drive through 'flowing' water or flooded areas. <br /> Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths, mostly during flash <br /> floods. Current can be deceptive and remember that six inches of <br /> moving water can knock you off your feet or impact your car. <br /> If you walk in standing water, use a pole of stick to ensure the area is <br /> still passable. <br /> d. Avoid driving through a flooded area. More people drown in their cars <br /> than anywhere else. Do not drive around road barriers as they may <br /> signal a bridge or roadway that has been washed out. <br /> If you have an emergency please contact the Orange County Sheriffs <br /> office or Emergency Services for assistance by dialing 911 before <br /> driving. <br /> e. Be alert for gas leaks and report them immediately to your utility <br /> provider. <br /> If you suspect a gas leak remember to always use a flashlight to <br /> inspect damage, do not use open flame devises (i.e. match, candles, <br /> lanterns, flare, etc.), and remember to extinguish all tobacco products <br /> (i.e. cigar, cigarettes, etc.) prior to going into an area where you <br /> suspect a gas leak. <br /> Also be cautious when inspecting damage in an enclosed space if you <br /> suspect a gas leak. Ensure the area is properly ventilated prior to <br /> entering. <br /> f. Stay away from power and electrical lines: The second highest cause <br /> of death resulting from a flood event is electrocution. Electrical current <br /> can travel through water. Report downed power lines immediately to <br /> your local power company and Orange County Emergency Services. <br /> g. Be on the lookout for animals, especially snakes. Small animals, who <br /> have been flooded out of their homes, may seek refuge in yours. Use a <br /> pole or a stick to turn things over to check for animals to avoid hurting <br /> them or yourself. <br /> 6 <br />