Landslides - masses of rock, earth or debris that move down a slope and can be caused by earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and by humans who develop on land that is unstable.

Mudflows - rivers of rock, earth, and other debris soaked with water mostly caused by melting snow or heavy rains and create a “slurry”. A “slurry” can travel several miles from its source and grows in size as it picks up trees, cars, and other things along the way just like an avalanche.

One major factor in the increase of landslides and mudflows is the world’s growing population is sprawling out of major cities and developing in high-risk areas. There are some warning signs to indicate if you have a potential problem.

BEFORE A LANDSLIDE OR MUDFLOW:

Learn risks - Ask your local emergency management office if your property is a “landslide-prone” area. Or call your County or State Geologist or Engineer.

Recent fires? - Be aware that areas hit by wildfires have an increased risk of landslides and mudflows once the rainy season starts.

Be prepared to evacuate - Listen to local authorities and leave if you are told to evacuate.

Where would we go? - Decide in advance where you would go in case you can’t return home for weeks or months .. or ever. If your home is damaged or destroyed or you’re forced to leave your home due to on-going threats (like mudslides or flooding), you’ll need to find temporary or permanent living quarters. This could mean staying in a public shelter or hotel, living with friends or relatives, or renting a home or apartment in the middle of all the chaos, so discuss several options now. Then, write down those options and share them with relatives and friends.

Reduce risks - Plant ground cover on slopes and build retaining walls.

Inspect - Look around home and property for landslide warning signs:
-- cracks or bumps appear on hill slopes, ground or roads
-- water or saturated ground in areas not normally wet
-- evidence of slow, downhill movement of rock and soil
-- tilted trees, poles, decks, patios, fences or walls
-- doors and windows stick or cracks appear on walls, etc.

Call an expert...? - Consult a professional for advice. Or visit the National Landslide Information Center at http://landslides.usgs.gov/nlic/

DURING A LANDSLIDE OR MUDFLOW:

Strange sounds - Listen for trees cracking, rocks banging together or water flowing rapidly (esp if near a stream or river) - debris flow may be close by.

Move it! - Whether you are in a vehicle, outside, or in your home – GET TO SAFER GROUND!

Be small - If there is no way to escape, curl into a tight ball and protect your head the best you can.

AFTER A LANDSLIDE OR MUDFLOW:

Listen - Local radio and TV reports will keep you posted on latest updates or check with your local police or fire departments.

Don’t go there - Stay away from the area until authorities say all is clear since there could be more slides or flows.

Things to watch for:
-- flooding - usually occur after landslides or debris flows
-- damaged areas - roadways and bridges may be buried, washed-out or weakened -- and water, gas & sewer lines may be broken
-- downed power lines - report them to power company

Inspect - Look for damage around home and property and watch for new landslide warning signs:
-- check foundation, chimney, garage and other structures
-- report any broken utility lines or damaged roads to local authorities
-- watch for tilted trees, poles, decks, patios, fences or walls
-- notice doors or windows stick, cracks appear, etc.

Replant - Try to fix or replant damaged ground to reduce erosion, possible flash flooding or future landslides.

Call an expert...? - Consult a professional landscaping expert for opinions and advice on landslide problems. Also call an expert out if you discover structural damage to home, chimney or other buildings.

Insurance - If your home suffers any damage, contact your insurance agent and keep all receipts for clean-up and repairs.

Some additional things to check and do...
-- Check for gas leaks (smells like rotten eggs, hear a hissing or blowing sound or see discolored plants or grass)
-- Check electrical system (watch for sparks, broken wires or the smell of hot insulation)
-- Check appliances after turning off electricity at main fuse and, if wet, unplug and let them dry out. Call a professional to check them before using.
-- Check water and sewage system and, if pipes are damaged, turn off main water valve.
-- Clean and disinfect everything that got wet (bleach is best) since mud left behind by floodwaters can contain sewage and chemicals. Wear gloves, mask and eye protection when using disinfectants.
-- Consider having your house tested for mold.
-- Secure valuable items or move them to another location, if possible
-- Download the Iowa Conservation and Preservation Consortium’s “Flood Recovery Booklet” to learn how to dry materials like artwork, books, photographs, CD/DVDs, etc. at http://www.neilsa.org

Above extracted from IT'S A DISASTER! book