Flood Response and Safety Tips

Flood warnings and watches are issued by the National Weather Service and can alert communities to the threat of hazardous weather conditions. Forecasts, advisories, watches and warnings from the National Weather Service may be broadcast on local radio and television stations, the National Weather Service web site, or NOAA Weather Radio, which broadcasts forecasts and warnings 24 hours a day. Other local radio and television stations carry Emergency Alert System (EAS) broadcasts as well during an event.

Watches mean that conditions are favorable for the development of hazardous weather. Flood watches are issued 12-72 hours in advance of an event where flooding is not certain but possible. Warnings mean that hazardous weather is occurring or is very likely to occur, conditions that pose a threat to life and property. Flood warnings are issued when a river is expected to reach flood stage.

Flood Response Tips:

• Develop and maintain an emergency preparedness kit that will get you through the first 72 hours of an event.
• Keep emergency supplies gathered in a portable and flood/rodent-proof container with food, water, safety and hygiene supplies for all family members.
• Know how, and under what circumstances, to turn off utilities.
• Keep appropriate tools, including a flashlight and an adjustable wrench, where they will be readily accessible when you need them.
• Flood cleanup activities may involve the use of gasoline- or diesel-powered pumps, generators, and pressure washers. Because these devices release carbon monoxide, a deadly, colorless, odorless gas, operate all gasoline-powered devices outdoors and never bring them indoors.
• Cleanup workers are at serious risk for hypothermia. Standing or working in water which is cooler than 75 degrees F will remove body heat more rapidly than it can be replaced, resulting in hypothermia.
• To reduce the risk of hypothermia, wear high rubber boots, ensure that clothing and boots have adequate insulation, avoid working alone, take frequent breaks out of the water, and change into dry clothing as soon as possible.

Flood Safety Tips:

• Do not walk through flowing water. Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths. Currents can be deceptive; six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. Stay away from riverbank edges and urban streams.
• Do not drive through a flooded area. During flood events, more people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Don’t drive around road barriers; use travel routes recommended by local authorities.
• Stay away from power lines and electrical wires. The number two cause of flood-related deaths is electrocution since electrical currents can travel through water. Report downed power lines to the power company or City emergency services by dialing 9-1-1.
• Have your electricity turned off by the power company. Some appliances, such as television sets, keep electrical charges even after they have been unplugged. Don’t use appliances or motors that have gotten wet unless they have been taken apart, cleaned and dried.
• Look out for animals. Small animals that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to poke and turn things over to scare away small animals.
• Look before you step. After a flood, floors and stairs can be covered with debris such as mud, broken glass, and other sharp objects.
• Be alert for gas leaks. Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don’t smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames unless you know the gas has been turned off and the area ventilated.