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15 <br /> h. Remember that after a flood the ground, and possibly floors of your <br /> residence, are covered with debris which can include broken bottles, <br /> glass, nails, and other similar hazards. Floors and stairs can also be <br /> very slippery. Walk in areas that have been inundated by flood waters <br /> with care to avoid injury. <br /> III. FLOOD PROOFING: <br /> As previously indicated there are several different ways to protect a building <br /> from flood damage, most notably locating structures outside of identified <br /> floodplains and stream buffers as well as ensuring the structure(s) are <br /> properly elevated above established flood elevations. There are also various <br /> options with respect to `flood proofing' or addressing the impacts of existing <br /> structures including. Some basic options include: <br /> • Retrofitting crawl spaces underneath a structure by relocating existing <br /> utilities (i.e. water heater, furnace, air conditioner, electric box) to some <br /> other location within the structure that is compliance with established <br /> flood regulations and installing hydrostatic vents. <br /> Hydrostatic pressure from floodwaters is a major cause of damage to <br /> structure(s) and can result in the catastrophic failure of the foundation. <br /> These vents allow floodwaters to move freely into and out of a crawl <br /> space thereby equalizing the water pressure on the walls. <br /> You will need to determine the location and number of vents necessary <br /> for the structure. Bear in mind hydrostatic vents cannot be higher than <br /> 1 foot above natural grade and the total vented area cannot be less <br /> than one square inch for every square foot of crawl space wall subject <br /> to flooding. <br /> Also bear in mind vents cannot be modified to remain closed. In order <br /> for the vent to function property it must be allowed to open and close <br /> based on water flow. You will have to maintain the vents by keeping <br /> them clear of debris to ensure they function properly. <br /> • A second option would involve elevating the residence above <br /> established base flood elevation thresholds. While this option can be <br /> expensive it is an effective means of addressing flooding problems. <br /> As previously indicates staff is more than happy to review various <br /> opportunities with you in protecting your property from damage as a result of <br /> flooding. <br /> IV. FLOOD INSURANCE: <br /> All property owners are encouraged to secure flood insurance regardless of <br /> the presence of flood plain on your property. Please bear in mind <br /> homeowners insurance policies do not cover damage to a structure resulting <br /> from flooding. <br /> 7 <br />