Interview local officials about land use management and building codes in floodplains. Work with local emergency services and American Red Cross officials to prepare special reports for people with mobility impairments on what to do if an evacuation is ordered. Periodically inform your community of local public warning systems. Individuals and business owners can protect themselves from flood losses by purchasing flood insurance through National Flood Insurance Program. Homeowner's policies do not cover flood damage.
Information is available through local insurance agents and emergency management offices.
Flooding has caused the deaths of more than 10,000 people since 1900. More than 2,200 lives were lost as a result of the Johnstown, Pennsylvannia flood of 1889. This flood was caused by an upstream dam failure. Nearly 9 of every 10 presidential disaster declarations result from natural phenomena in which flooding was a major component. A wall of water 19 feet high roared down the Big Thompson Canyon where many people were camping.