Flash flooding is a hazard in the spring, so be prepared.
Do: Turn on your TV/radio.
Do not miss any important safety announcements during a severe storm. As soon as “flood watch” is declared in your county, leave your TV on. If an evacuation order is issued, you’ll need to know as soon as possible. Just don’t let a storm sneak up on you.
Don’t make any unnecessary trips.
If there’s a chance of flooding in your area or a severe storm approaching, just stay home! Only get in your car if you need to move away from a flood-prone area. Non-essential trips can wait.
Do: Have an emergency preparedness plan.
Ideally, you and your family already have an emergency plan in case of flooding. If not, there’s no time like the present. Make an evacuation plan for your family, including the route you’ll take and where you will stay. Also have an emergency kit at home, with basic necessities like flashlights, first aid, and water.
Don’t drive on flooded streets.
We all know: Turn Around, Don’t Drown! If you see fast-moving water on a roadway just turn around, no matter how shallow the water looks. If you can’t turn around, leave your vehicle and move to higher ground. Cars are replaceable, but your life isn’t.
Do: Move away from low-lying areas.
If you are in a floodplain, or another area at high risk for flooding, move to higher ground. It is best to leave any low-lying areas during flooding quickly before they are cut off by flood waters. If you are ordered to evacuate, do not procrastinate. Floods can occur rapidly and you won’t have as much time as you may think.
Don’t walk or play in flooded water.
As little as six inches of moving water can knock an adult or child off their feet, so there’s no reason to be walking around in flooded water. Also, dangerous debris could be moving through the water or a pollutant. If power lines are down, there is a serious risk of electrocution.