Emergency Preparedness Program

Flood

Flooding is the overflowing of rivers, streams, drains and lakes due to excessive rainfall, rapid snow melt or ice. Flooding in Macomb County is becoming increasingly prevalent as development outstrips the ability of the drainage infrastructure to properly carry and disburse the water flow. Water, with no place to go, will find the lowest elevations. Typically, the result is water backing into basements, which damages mechanical systems and can create serious public health and safety concerns.

 

Protect Yourself and Your Property:

• Determine your risk for flooding.
• If building, construct with flooding in mind.
• Consider flood insurance. (Macomb County is ranked number one of all Michigan counties in flood insurance coverage.)
• Protect important papers and equipment.
• If flooding is expected, consider using sandbags to keep water away from your home.
• Prepare members of your household for flooding.

If a Flood Watch is Issued for Your Area:

• Stay informed.  Listen to local radio or television stations for updates.
• Be ready to evacuate immediately.
• Follow authorities’instructions.
• Save lives, not belongings.

During a Flood:

• Climb to high ground.
• Get away from standing, flowing or rising water.

After a Flood:

• Help yourself, then help others.
• Stay away from damaged areas. Return home after authorities say it is safe.
• Take precautions while cleaning up.
• Make sure the water is safe to drink.

Learn More:

• Floods (Ready America)
• Flood (FEMA)
• Floods (CDC)
• Flood Safety (National Weather Service)
• Flood and Flash Flood (American Red Cross)
• National Flood Insurance Program
  
  

 

Information is not intended to be a substitute for appropriate medical advice.  Links to external sites do not constitute endorsements by Macomb County.

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