Since 1900, more Americans have died in fires than have been killed in all of the wars during the same period. Residential fires are the leading cause of accidental death for children under the age of five. Fire safety and how to prevent fires . Some floods develop over a period of days, but flash floods can result in raging waters in just a few minutes. Water runs off steeper ground very rapidly, causing natural drainage systems to overflow with rushing flood waters and a deadly cargo of rocks, mud, smashed trees and other debris.
Mudslides are also a danger created by flood conditions.
Nationally, floods claim an average of 263 lives each year. Flood waters only one foot deep can sweep you off your feet. Be aware of potential flooding hazards. If you are in a low-lying area, or near water, you should prepare for floods. What to do during a flood .