The National Weather Service provides tips on preparing for a flooding and flashfloods as the topic for the second day of Severe Weather Awareness Week.
Flooding is the most common and costly disaster in the United States.
In preparation of possible future floods the National Weather Service reminds you to do the following:
- Talk with your insurance agent if your property is at risk for flooding or mudflows. Flood Insurance Policies typically take 30 days to take effect.
- Safe guard your documents from flood waters by placing them in waterproof containers. Move valuables to higher levels.
- Declutter drains and gutters for proper drainage.
Tips for during a flood include:
- Do not walk, swim, or drive through flooded waters.
- Never drive around barricades.
- Stay off bridges over fast moving water, fast moving water can wash bridges away without warning.
- If prompted for evacuations, do so immediately. Listen to local news outlets for information from authorities, and sign up for SMART911 (GREENE) to receive notifications from officials.
- If your car is trapped in rapidly moving water, stay in it if possible, If water is rising inside the car get on the roof of it.
- TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN
Tips for after a Flood include:
- Continue to listen to authorities with information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe.
- Wear protective clothing such as heavy work gloves, boots, face coverings, or masks when cleaning mold or debris.
- Be aware that snakes or other animals could be in your house.
- Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity when it is safe to do so.
- Use generators or other gasoline powered machinery only outdoors and away from windows.
Stay tuned everyday this week as we announce different National Weather Service storm tips in recognition of Severe Weather Awareness Week.
