Host Janet Michael welcomes Deb Fleming, Executive Director of the Greater Shenandoah Valley Chapter of the American Red Cross, for a comprehensive discussion on flood preparedness. As spring approaches and snow begins to melt, flooding becomes a real threat to communities across the Shenandoah Valley. Learn how to prepare your home and family before disaster strikes, what to do when floodwaters rise, and the critical steps for recovery and cleanup afterward.

Key Topics Covered

Before a Flood

• Understanding your flood risk and checking flood zones
• The importance of proper flood insurance (vs. homeowner's and hurricane insurance)
• Building a two-week emergency preparedness kit
• Essential supplies: water, food, medications, pet supplies, and infant needs
• Downloading emergency apps and monitoring weather alerts
• Creating a family emergency plan and establishing safe meeting locations
• Knowing where your gas shutoff valve and electric panel are located

During a Flood

• Turn Around, Don't Drown: Why you should never drive through standing water
• How much water it takes to move a vehicle (just 12 inches!)
• When to shelter in place vs. evacuate to higher ground
• Shutting off gas and electricity to prevent explosions and fires
• Hidden dangers in floodwater: chemicals, sewage, wildlife, downed power lines

After a Flood

• Waiting for official clearance before returning home
• Critical: Documenting damage BEFORE cleanup for insurance and FEMA
• Proper protective gear for cleanup (rubber gloves, boots)
• Avoiding contaminated water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning
• What to throw away vs. what can be salvaged
• How to access Multi-Agency Resource Centers (MARCs) for recovery assistance
• Reporting damage to emergency management (call 911)

Important Safety Facts

• 6 inches of water can knock you off balance
• 12 inches of water can carry your vehicle away
• Flood insurance can cost as little as $400 per year
• Emergency kits should contain 1 gallon of water per person per day
• Most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles, not homes
• Items in basements are typically not covered by FEMA assistance

Resources Mentioned

American Red Cross

• Website: RedCross.org/get-help
• Emergency preparedness checklists
• Mobile emergency apps
• Videos for kids on disaster preparedness
• Cleanup kits available
• Phone: 1-800-RED-CROSS

Government Resources

• Ready.gov
• Disaster preparedness information
• Water.noaa.gov
• Real-time flooding data and forecasts
• Enter your zip code to check flood risk in your area

Emergency Services

• Call 911 to report flood damage and request disaster assessment

About the Show

Valley Today is your source for community conversations across the Shenandoah Valley. Host Janet Michael brings you important discussions on topics that matter to Valley residents.

Connect

For more information about disaster preparedness or to get help during an emergency, contact the American Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS or visit RedCross.org.

This episode is part of a year-long series on disaster preparedness, helping communities prepare for disasters both large and small.