Lesson Five: Decision Making OBJECTIVE: Develop a flood emergency plan for a given scenario

Supporting Objectives Describe the decision-making process List important questions to ask during the decision-making process Summarize the priorities that should be set before and during the flood response Examine factors that can influence the decision-making process Identify available resources for the flood response 2

Decision Making Process Not a one-time process Must be adaptable and flexible 3

Evaluate Threats Completely review all flood threats Use sound logic, not emotion Form a small committee 4

Evaluate Options Review options for each threat Use sound logic, not emotion Some situations have no effective options 5

Key Questions to Ask When Evaluating Response Options When will the river crest? Are multiple crests expected? How long will we have high water? How high? What structures could be affected? Could the flood forecast change? What other factors are present? 6

Determine the Response Select the best response This may involve elected officials There may not be a “best” method 7

Response Priorities 8

Protection of Human Life May require evacuation Consider notification and moving times Consider special risk facilities Evaluate evacuation routes and care centers Consider flood response worker safety 9

Protection of Critical Facilities Waste water treatment plants Potable water sources Essential government functions Hospitals Schools 10

Protection of Property Commercial properties Industrial properties Personal property 11

Influencing Factors 12

Time Available 13

Resource Capabilities Equipment Materials Personnel Support Systems 14

Lesson Summary 15

What are the steps in the decision-making process? 16

What are some important questions to ask during the decision-making process?

What priorities should be set before and during a flood response?

What factors can influence the decision-making process?

What are some available flood response resources?

Group Activity: Resource Inventory