Weather Safety - Floods

When a flood watch is issued

• Be alert to signs of flooding and be prepared to take action if a warning is issued.

When a flood warning is issued

• If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
• Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.
• Continue monitoring NOAA Weather Radio, television, or emergency broadcast station for information.

Safety tips

• Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, etc.
• Avoid already flooded areas. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
• If driving, be aware that the road bed may not be intact under flood waters. Turn around and go another way. NEVER drive through flooded roadways. Nearly half of all flood/flash flood fatalities are auto-related.
• If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rising water may engulf your vehicle and its occupants. Remember, it's better to be wet than dead!
• Be especially cautious at night when it's harder to recognize flooding dangers.
• Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams during threatening conditions.
• Children should NEVER play around high water or storm drains.

After the flood

• If fresh food has come in contact with flood waters, throw it out.
• Boil drinking water before using. Wells should be pumped out and the water tested for purity before drinking. If in doubt, call your local public health authority.
• Seek necessary medical care at the nearest hospital. Food, clothing, shelter, and first aid are available from the Red Cross.
• Do not visit flood areas. Your presence might hamper rescue and other emergency operations.
• Electrical equipment should be checked and dried before being returned to service.
• Use flashlights (not lanterns, torches, or matches) to examine buildings. Flammables may be inside.
• Report broken utility lines to appropriate authorities.