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You can take an active role in protecting your property from flood damage both prior to and during a flood.
Floodproofing Methods
- You can divert water from your property by re-grading or constructing an earthen berm. Both of these may require a permit so contact the Maricopa County Planning and Development Department before starting any construction.
- Sandbagging alone is not an effective method for protecting a structure from flooding. You must also caulk to keep water out. Expanding foam and duct tape are more effective than sandbags, however each may damage finishes.
- The construction of a swale (shallow ditch) and a retention area (small shallow depression) are other effective methods of preventing flooding. Again, you will need to check to see if a permit is required before construction may start.
- If roof drainage is a problem, gutters can help direct runoff.
- Another way of floodproofing a building is by raising the building above the flood stage water level. This can be expensive, but may be very effective over time in preventing flood damage. For flood state water level information, call the Flood Control District at (602) 506-2419 and ask to speak with a Floodplain Representative.
During a Flood
To protect your property from water damage, fasten plastic sheeting or other waterproof paper across windows and doors.
If evacuation appears necessary and time permits:
- Turn off the electricity at the main power switch and turn off the gas at the main valve.
- Move valuable papers and personal items to upper floors or higher elevations.
- Move outdoor possessions inside, or anchor them down and tie them together so they don't get carried away.
- Keep a battery-powered radio handy and tuned into a local emergency broadcast station; follow all emergency instructions.
- Move to high ground or an established emergency shelter. If it is safe to evacuate by car, take nonperishable food, blankets, flashlight, dry clothing and any special medications with you. Be aware that many stores and gas stations will be closed since pumps and cash registers may not function if electricity has been cut off.
- Do not drive where water is over the road. Part of the road may be washed out or the standing water may be much deeper than it looks.
When you return to your home and find that it has been flooded, check first for structural damage. Then air out the home in case of possible gas leaks. Do not turn on gas or electricity until the systems have been checked for gas leaks and short circuits by representatives of the utility companies.
Report structural damage as soon as possible. Contact phone numbers may be given on the radio or television, or you may also contact your community's building permit office, the Water and Waste Management Division of the Maricopa County Environmental Services Department at (602) 506-6666 or the Maricopa County Department of Emergency Management at (602) 273-1411.
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