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agent for more information but remember that flood insurance has a 30 -day waiting period so <br />you should purchase it sooner rather than later. <br />Keep drainage systems clean. When culverts or ditches are plugged, water backs up and <br />becomes unpredictable. Instead of flowing down the ditch, water may begin flowing towards <br />your home. Landowners should ensure that ditches are free of debris and culverts are unplugged. <br />Tarp dams should be removed from ditches when not in use. Do not dump or throw anything in <br />ditches or streams. During a flood, these items can be washed away and plug culverts and <br />channels. <br />Prepare your property. Do not build or store items within the floodplain unless they are <br />properly elevated, anchored and permitted by your local jurisdiction. Some items around your <br />house, such as storage sheds, are easily shifted by floodwaters and must be anchored using an <br />approved method. HVAC systems, hot water heaters and electrical panels should be elevated <br />above flood levels. Install a backflow valve in your septic system to prevent sewage backing up <br />into your home. <br />Secure your propane tank. Propane tanks are very susceptible to damage from flood waters if <br />not properly secured. Even underground tanks can become buoyant when surrounded by <br />saturated soils. Above ground tanks are subject to buoyancy and the forces of flowing water and <br />debris. Tanks should be securely anchored to the ground using tie downs, anchor bolts or earth <br />augurs. The type of anchoring is dependent on specific site conditions, such as soil type and the <br />buoyancy forces that will be exerted on the tank. If you have questions about the secureness of <br />your propane tank, contact your Fire Marshal or propane provider. <br />Minimize flood damage. Store valuables and electronics higher. Keep an inventory of <br />household items for insurance purposes. Store copies of irreplaceable financial and family <br />documents in a safe place including titles, tax records, deeds, wills, birth and marriage <br />certificates, stock and bond certificates, trust agreements, passports, and insurance policies. <br />Put together a disaster kit and disaster plan. Keep water, food, batteries, flashlight, battery <br />powered radio, first aid kit, and any other essential items on hand, such as pet food, medication, <br />and diapers. For the disaster plan, designate an out-of-town contact. Be sure every member of <br />your family has the contact's phone number to call in case of an emergency. Figure out the best <br />routes to take in case of evacuation. For more information, visit www.readv.sov. <br />For more information on flooding or floodplain regulations within Kittitas County, visit the <br />County's flood information website at www.co.kittitas.wa.us/public-works/flood/default.aspx or <br />contact Arden Thomas, Kittitas County Floodplain Manager at 509-962-7523. <br />Flood Awareness Month Proclamation <br />Kittitas County, from the Cascades to the Columbia, and online at http://www.co.kittitas.wa.us <br />