Prepardness Information

SALCHA COMMUNITY FLOOD RESPONSE PLAN

Have disaster supplies on hand:

· Flashlights and extra batteries
· Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries tuned to a local station for emergency instructions
· First aid kit (with sufficient materials to treat several people) and manual
· Emergency food (3-5 day supply) and bottled water (1 gal. per person per day)
· Non-electric can opener
· Essential medicines and supplies (eyeglasses, dentures)
· Cash and credit cards
· Sturdy shoes
· Clothing, personal hygiene items

If you live in a frequently flooded area, take preventative measures and stockpile emergency materials:

· Plywood, plastic sheeting, lumber, nails, hammer a saw, pry bar, shovels, etc.
· Have check valves installed in building sewer traps to prevent floodwaters from backing into sewer drains.
· As a last resort, use large corks or stoppers to plug showers, tubs or basins.

Plan and practice an evacuation route:

· Develop an emergency communication plan in case family members are separated from one another during floods.
· Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as a the "Family contact." Make sure everyone in the family knows the name, address and phone number of the contact person. Teach children your out-of-state contact's number.
· Teach all family members how and when to turn off gas, electricity and water.
· Teach children how and when to call 9-1-1 and which radio station to tune to for emergency information.
· Post emergency telephone numbers near telephones.
· Be prepared to evacuate.

Other steps, if time permits:

· Turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve if evacuation appears necessary.
· Move valuables such as papers, furs, jewelry and clothing to upper floors or higher elevations
· Fill bathtubs, sinks and plastic soda bottles with clean water. Sanitize the sinks and tub by using bleach, Rinse, then fill with clean water.
· Bring outdoor possessions, such as lawn furniture, grills and trashcans inside, or tie down securely.

Once the flood arrives:

· If you intend to evacuate, communicate your intentions to a neighbor or friend. This saves rescuers from having to search for you.
· Don't drive through a flooded area
· If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.
· Don't walk through flooded areas. As little as six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.
· Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires.
· Look out for animals. Do not trap or corner wild animals.

After the flood:

· Flood dangers do not end when the water begins to recede. Listen to a radio or television and do not return home until authorities indicate it is safe to do so.
· Remember to help your neighbors who may require special assistance (infants, elderly, and people with disabilities).

Inspecting electrical appliances after the flood:

· Do not use electrical appliances that have been wet. Water can damage the motors in items such as furnaces, freezers, refrigerators, washers and dryers.
· If electrical appliances have been under water, have them dried out and reconditioned by a qualified service repairman. Turning on damaged electrical appliances can cause the appliance to become grounded and pose an electric shock hazard or overheat and cause a fire.
· Use a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) to help prevent electrocutions and electrical shock injuries.

Inspecting utilities in a damaged home:

· Check for propane leaks-If you smell propane or hear blowing or hissing noise, open a window and leave the building. Turn off the propane at the outside main bottle valve if you can.
· Look for electrical system damage-If you see sparks or broken or frayed \wires, or if you see insulation, turn off the electricity at the main fuse box or circuit breaker. If you have to step to get to the fuse box or circuit breaker, call an electrician for advice.
· Check for sewage and water line damage. If you suspect sewage or water lines are damaged call a plumber. Have your well water checked.

Pets:

Prepare for pet care. Pets will not be allowed in shelters.
· Water-A three-seven day supply. A 10 pound animal needs about one quart of water per day; a 40 pound animal needs about one gallon of water per day.
· Food-A three-seven day supply
· Kennel/crate for housing: For dogs, it should be large enough to stand up and turn around and include food/water bowls. For cats it should be large enough to include a small litter pan along with food/water bowls.
· Medical records, extra medication, identification tags.
· There is a brochure available through PEPPA (People for Emergency Preparedness Planning for Animals in Alaska) that outlines in more detail supplies necessary for dogs, cats, birds reptiles and rabbits, pocket pets and ferrets. Some of these brochures are available in the community.

Below is a list of emergency phone numbers

EMERGENCY 911
Agencies:
FNSB Emergency Management 459-1481
Salcha Rescue 488-5274 (non-emergency)
Alaska State Troopers 451-5100 (non-emergency)
American Red Cross Fairbanks: 456-5937

Community Resources:

Salcha Senior Center (temporary community shelter)
Salcha School (FNSB designated Community Shelter)
CERT (in coordination with the FNSB/Salcha Rescue)