Heavy rains and quickly melting snow can lead to a risk of landslides due to overly saturated soils. This is particularly true in areas that were decimated by wildfires earlier this year, as there is no foliage and roots to keep the ground from slipping.

How will you know if the earth around your home is starting to slip? The following warning tips are offered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, and they may help you determine if your home or neighborhood is at risk:

• Doors and windows stick or jam for the first time.

• New cracks appear in tile, brick, plaster or foundations.

• Outside walks, sidewalks, or stairs begin pulling away from the building.

• Widening cracks start to appear in driveways, walkways, patios or even the street.

• Underground utilities break.

• Bulging appears at the base of a slope.

• Fences, retaining walls, utility poles or trees start to tilt or move.

Or, worse yet:

• You hear a faint rumbling sound that increases in volume.

• The ground starts sloping downward in one specific location.

If you are in a building when the land starts to slide, FEMA recommends that you:

• Stay inside.

• Take cover under a desk, table or piece of sturdy furniture.

  -- 1/1/2009

  
  
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