As little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. Stay away from downed power fines and electrical wires. Electrocution is another major source of deaths in floods. Electric current passes easily through water. Look out for animals - especially snakes.
Animals lose their homes in floods, too.
They may seek shelter in yours. If your home, apartment or business has suffered damage, call the insurance company or agent who handles your flood insurance policy right away to file a claim. Before entering a building, check for structural damage. Don't go in if there is any chance of the building collapsing. Upon entering the building, do not use matches, cigarette lighters or any other open flames, since gas may be trapped inside.