Find out if you live in a flood-prone area or in a flood plain.

Determine if you should have flood insurance.  Remember regular homeowner's insurance policies do not cover flood damage and after you purchase flood insurance, there is a 30-day waiting period before new policies go into effect.

Plan for evacuation and plan where to meet family members.

Take steps to flood-proof your home.

Know where your main electrical box is and how to shut off the main breaker.

If you use well water, find out how to protect the wellhead. Know how to shut off your household water source.

If you have animals, plan for their safety.

For family preparedness information, contact Benton County Emergency Management

If a flash flood is likely, move immediately to higher ground.

Listen to Benton County's Emergency Alert System radio stations (KONA 610 AM/105.3 FM) for emergency broadcasts and updated information.

Fill the bathtub with water in case water becomes contaminated or services are cut off.

If authorities issue a flood watch, prepare to evacuate.

Secure your home. If time permits, secure the items outside your house.

If instructed, turn off utilities at the main switches and valves. http://www.floodsafety.com/

Fill your car with fuel.

Stay away from flood waters and from moving water.  Moving water six inches deep can sweep you off your feet.

Move animals to higher ground.

Be aware of areas where flood waters have receded and may have weakened road surfaces.

Check with your electric company before turning on your main breaker.

Stay away from and report downed power lines.

Consider health and safety needs. Wash your hands frequently with soap and clean water if you come into contact with flood waters.

Throw away food that has come into contact with flood waters or has been without refrigeration.

Boil well water for 3-5 minutes before consuming it until a satisfactory bacterial analysis has been obtained.

To protect on-site sewage systems, do not use sinks, showers and toilets until the ground has dried.

Call your insurance agent

Take photos of or videotape your belongings and your home to document damage and repairs. Keep an inventory of all damaged goods.

Dry out your home and buildings as quickly as possible. Discard materials that are wet and cannot be thoroughly cleaned and dried.