You don't have to live near water to fall victim to flooding.

Here's a few tips to protect yourself and your family:

Prepare for a Flood
 -Keep emergency building supplies on hand (lumber, nails, sandbags, shovel).
-Keep an emergency weather radio.
-Install check valves in your plumbing to prevent floodwater backup.
-Plan an evacuation route and meeting place.

 During a Flood
 -Do not drive or walk through floods. As a general rule, 6 inches of moving water is dangerous.
-Avoid storm drains and sewers.
-Stay away from power lines.
-Look out for snakes or critters that may seek shelter in your home.
-Do not go into buildings surrounded by flood water.

 After a Flood
What can you do after your home is flooded? Follow these tips from FEMA and the American Red Cross.

-Be patient. Wait for the water to recede before going into your home.
-Report gas leaks and downed power lines.
-Turn off the electricity at the main breaker or fuse box. Call an electrician if you have to step in water to get to your electric box.
-Turn off the gas if you have gas appliances.
-Check for structural damage.
-Check the ceiling for signs of sagging. Poke a hole at the edge of the sag to drain water.
-Find and protect your valuables, then freeze them in plastic bags to protect them from mildew.
-Open the windows to circulate air through your home.
-Patch holes in the windows, walls, or roof.
-Repair sagging floors or roof sections with 4x4s to brace weak areas.
-Remove debris such as tree limbs or trash.
-Check for broken water pipes. Do not use water until it's been declared safe.
-Drain water in your basement slowly and carefully. Pump 2 to 3 feet of water out and wait overnight. Draining basements too early can result in serious structural damage.
-Shovel out as much mud as possible.
-Hose the house down, inside and out.
-Hose heating and air conditioning ducts.
-Hose out light sockets and electrical boxes. (Make sure electricity is turned off).
-Wash ducts with a disinfectant.
-Keep records of damage to the building and hold on to receipts for cleanup expenses.
-Replace wallboard.
-Allow wood to dry naturally.

For more useful tips, go to www.floodsmart.gov