AS A DESIGN PROFESSIONAL HOW SHOULD I DESIGN THE STRUCTURE?

Floodproofing is described as a combination of adjustments and/or additions of features to buildings that eliminate or reduce the potential of flood damage.

Examples of this:

The Structure:
• Is it anchored to resist floating, collapse, or lateral movement?

• Are the walls properly reinforced to withstand the pressures of the flood water and/or any forces generated by floating debris?

• Are the walls/slab coated with a sealant or a membrane to reduce seepage?

• Are pumps installed to control interior water levels?

• Have check valves been installed to prevent water or sewage flows through the utilities?

• Has the location of electrical mechanical, utility, and other valuable damageable equipment been designed to be installed above the flood elevation?

• Are all door/window openings below the flood elevation designed to accomadate the installation of watertight barriers?

• Is the installation of any potential architectural cladding components or molding features going to coincide with the flood proofing requirements?

Other Planning Considerations:

Warning Time:

• Is there an established and reliable flood warning system?

• Will this warning system allow for adequate time for the safe evacuation of the structure?

• Does this warning time also allow for the implementation of any flood proofing components; such as, flood barriers?

Safe Access:

• What is the rate-of-rise of floodwaters for the site, and does it create any hazards for anyone trying to leave?

• Are the evacuations routes able to remain passable long enough to complete the installation of all necessary flood-proofing components?

Once this information is established, it is than necessary to produce the FLOOD EMERGENCY OPERATION PLAN. This document lays out a clear plan of everything that must occur for the safe evacuation and implementation of flood proofing components. Please refer to FEMA TB 3-93 pgs, 4-5 for further information on the Flood Emergency Operation Plan and it necessary components.