The Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management  is  responsible for leading the County's efforts to prepare for, prevent, respond to and recover from disasters.

Our vision is to build a disaster resistant community prepared for the future.

Our mission is to develop plans and programs that prepare Montgomery County and its communities to effectively prevent, respond to and recover from catastrophic disasters.

Flood Facts, Safety Tips and Insurance Information

Most communities in the United States can experience some kind of flooding after spring rains, heavy thunderstorms or winter snow thaws. Floods can be slow or fast-rising, but generally develop over a period of days. Flash floods usually result from intense storms dropping large amounts of rain within a brief period. Flash flooding can occur with little or no warning and can reach its peak in only a few minutes.

Emergency Information

Flood waters can be extremely dangerous. The force of six inches of swiftly moving water can knock an adult person off his or her feet. The best protection during a flood is to leave the area and seek shelter on higher ground.

Flash flood waters move very quickly and can roll boulders, tear out trees, destroy buildings and obliterate bridges. Walls of water can reach heights of 10 to 20 feet and generally are accompanied by a deadly cargo of debris. The best response to any signs of flash flooding is to move immediately and quickly to higher ground.

Just two feet of moving water can float and carry away most vehicles, including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pickup trucks. You can protect yourself best by being prepared and having time to act.

Before a Flood

• Check with your local floodplain administrator to determine if you live in a flood-prone area.
• Visit the Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources, Division of Soil and Water Resources' Web site at: http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/Portals/7/floodpln/communitylist.pdf for a list of Ohio's local floodplain administrators.
• Visit this Ohio Dept. of Natural Resources, Division of Soil and Water Resources' site for additional information on flood maps and flood insurance studies: http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/water/tabid/3516/Default.aspx
• Consider installing check valves in building sewer traps to prevent flood waters from backing up in sewer drains.
• Plan and practice an evacuation route.
• Have disaster supplies on hand.
• Develop an emergency communication plan.
• Flood damage to vehicles is covered by auto insurance when comprehensive coverage is purchased.

During a Flood Watch

• Listen to a radio or television for the latest storm information.
• Fill bathtub, sinks and jugs with clean water in case water becomes contaminated.
• Move valuable household possessions to upper floors or to safe grounds if time permits.
• If you are instructed by local authorities, turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve.
• Be prepared to evacuate.

Flood Safety

During a Flood Warning

• If indoors, turn on a battery-powered radio or NOAA Weather Radio to get the latest emergency information. If your area is advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
• If outdoors, climb to high ground and stay there. Avoid walking through any flood waters.
• If you are driving and have come to a flooded area, turn around and go the other way. Many deaths have resulted from attempts to drive through flooded roadways.

During an Evacuation

• If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Evacuation is much simpler and safer before flood waters block your escape. Leave early enough to avoid being marooned by flooded roads.
• Never attempt to drive or walk through flood waters. Water could be deeper than it appears and floodwater currents can be deceptive. Remember, it only takes two feet of water to carry away most vehicles.
• Listen to a battery-operated radio or TV for evacuation instructions.
• Follow recommended evacuation routes. Shortcuts may be blocked.

After a Flood

• 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.
• Remember to help those who may require special assistance: infants, young children, the elderly and people with disabilities.
• Before entering a flood-damaged building, check the foundation for cracks and inspect porch roofs and overhangs to be sure they are adequately supported. Ask a building inspector to check the house before you go inside.
• Be alert for gas leaks. Do not strike a match or use open flame when entering a building unless you know the gas has been turned off and the area ventilated.
• Do not use appliances or motors that have gotten wet unless they have been taken apart, cleaned and dried.
• For more information on floods or flood safety, contact your state or local emergency management agency; the Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Division of Water; the National Weather Service; or your local American Red Cross chapter.

See www.floodsmart.gov, www.ohioinsurance.org/pdf/flood.pdf, www.disastereducation.org/guide.html, http://dnr.state.oh.us/Water/tabid/18985/Default.aspx or www.fema.gov/hazards/flood/ for additional information.