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

2. 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

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

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

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

6. 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

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

8. Response Priorities 8

9. 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

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

11. Protection of Property
Commercial properties
Industrial properties
Personal property 11

12. Influencing Factors 12

13. Time Available 13

14. Resource Capabilities
Equipment
Materials
Personnel
Support Systems 14

15. Lesson Summary 15

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

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

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

19. What factors can influence the decision-making process?

20. What are some available flood
response resources?

21. Group Activity: Resource Inventory