The previous section described various problems you may encounter during the rainy season. Below are some general rules to be followed in most cases involving flood waters, debris, and erosion.
NEVER
underestimate the power of debris flows.
TRY
to direct debris flows away from improvements.
AVOID
trying to control or confine the flows more than is absolutely required.
CLEAR
a path for the debris.
USE
your house or building as a deflector, if necessary.
ALWAYS
place protection to deflect debris, not to dam or stop it.
DEBRIS
will often enter a building through windows - board them up.
REMEMBER
to protect your most valuable property first - your home.
THEN
consider what time and money are available to protect other less valuable objects such as swimming pools or landscaping.
TRY
to install more permanent measures (Figs. 18 and 19) to protect your home. In general, the problem of debris flows will exist for several years after a burn. Sandbags usually last for only a year.
ALWAYS
work with adjacent affected property owners.
BE
prepared to sacrifice the use of portions of your property to achieve the greatest amount of protection.
AVOID
altering drainage patterns that could worsen conditions for your neighbor.
Fig. 18 TELEPHONE POLE OR RAILROAD TIE BARRIER
Fig. 19 REMOVABLE DRIVEWAY BARRIER
