Areas at Risk

• Determine whether your home or work place is downstream from a dam and whether you are within a predetermined evacuation zone.

• The potential risk of a dam break is designated by the following criteria:

• High Hazard—Dam failure would probably result in loss of life and major damage to property.

• Significant Hazard—Dam failure could possibly cause some loss of life and property damage.

• Low Hazard—Dam failure is unlikely to cause loss of life or property damage.

Causes

• Severe storms, including thunder­storms and hurricanes/typhoons

• Accumulation of melted snow

• Jams caused by debris

• Landslides

• Volcanic eruptions

• Fire

• Civil disturbance

Immediate Actions

• Move to higher ground immediately. Do not wait for instructions to move. If there is time, move important items to a top floor.

• Stay tuned to the radio or TV for further information and instructions.

If Ordered to Evacuate

• Take only essential items, including your family emergency kit.

• Turn off gas, electricity, and water.

• Disconnect appliances.

• Make sure your car’s gas tank is full.

• Do not walk in moving water.

• Do not drive in flood water. As little as six inches of water can cause loss of control and stalling of a vehicle. 

• If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be swept away quickly.

• Follow the designated evacuation plan, and expect a high volume of traffic.

If Not Ordered to Evacuate

• Stay tuned to emergency station on radio or TV and eMNS alerts.

• Listen for further instructions.

• Prepare to evacuate to a shelter or neighbor’s home if your home is damaged.

Once You Are Safe

Follow your command’s protocols for personnel accountability and contact your command’s designated Point of Contact to check-in and report your location and situation.