Chapter 1 · Fundamentals
1.11 Common mistakes
- Waiting for the threat to "get serious" before acting. Flash floods don't give you time. Act on the watch, not on the warning.
- Driving toward water or through a low crossing "because it looks shallow." It is one of the leading causes of flood deaths.
- Relying only on your cell phone. Without power or network, you're left without information, without a flashlight, and without phone numbers.
- Using generators, grills, or camp stoves inside the home or on a patio right next to the door. Carbon monoxide kills with no smell and no warning (chapters 9 and 14).
- Having no plan for pets. Many people don't evacuate because they won't leave their pets; plan now (chapter 2).
- Returning home before it's authorized. Downed wires, gas, and damaged structures remain dangerous.
- Making the plan and not practicing it. A plan nobody remembers doesn't exist.
