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Learn-Assess a flood may include removing people and property from areas about to be flooded; sandbagging around individual structures and constructing emergency dikes to direct water away from vulnerable areas; search and rescue; and steps to protect the health and safety of residents. To be successful, flood emergency measures must have the thorough involvement of the private sector, from individuals who evacuate and take household-level emergency precautions, to the organized group efforts like those of the American Red Cross local chapters. Private contractors work for communities and individuals to remove debris and repair homes, roads, bridges, and other property damaged from floods. Some states have standing contracts with private businesses to provide emergency services in disasters. The 1983 floods in Utah showed what literally thousands of volunteers, acting individually and in groups, can accomplish during flood emergencies. The Corps is the federal agency most commonly involved in flood emergencies, under authority of P.L. 84-99, which authorizes it to help in flood fighting, repair and restoration of flood control works, provision of emergency water supplies, implementation of advance protective measures, and the performance of other hazard mitigation activities. The support may take the form of technical assistance, materials, equipment, or services. The Soil Conservation Service may also become involved with emergency efforts. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission requires emergency action plans for all its licensed dams. The Federal Emergency Management Agency helps state and local governments assess the extent and severity of damage in order to seek disaster assistance. State emergency services agencies generally coordinate state resources and activities during flood emergencies, and the state police and transportation or public works departments, the Page 26 of36