FAST FACTS: Staying Safe During Flooding
(CBS4) -- If you are at home:
- The safest place for you to stay is in your home. Unplug all electrical appliances, computers, TV, etc.
- Place towels at the bottom of all your exterior doors. It might not stop the water, but should slow it down. Sand bags are not recommended as it would have no impact on the rising water levels.
- If you are stranded in your home, remain inside and call a neighbor or friend hourly to ensure them you are safe. Keep a TV or portable radio playing to listen to any news updates.
- The tap water in your home is drinkable. If that changes, residents will be notified either through a reverse 911 call, news media, or through government access channels.
If you are in your car:
- Make sure that your windshield wipers are in good condition prior to leaving the house.
- When it starts raining, turn on your headlights immediately.
- Reduce your speed.
- If you begin to feel threatened by the rain, pull over until it calms down.
- Keep one space between you and the car ahead.
- Avoid flooded areas.
- If you are unable to avoid puddles, make sure that you drive very slowly and afterwards dry your brakes off by pressing on them gently and slowly.
- If you become stranded in your vehicle, police and fire will respond to all emergency situations. If you are not injured, remain in your vehicle until the flood waters subside or you may attempt to walk out of the area if you can determine it is safe to do so.
- If you are driving a vehicle and come to an intersection where the traffic lights are not functioning, this is to be handled as if you are at a four way stop sign.
If your power goes out:
- Assume all cables and wires are energized and stay away.
- Keep away from flooded and debris-laden areas because they may be hiding downed lines.
- Run your portable generator outside your house or building, and connect appliances or equipment directly to it.
- If you leave your home, turn off appliances that may have been on when the power went out, or turn off your main breaker.
- Avoid driving in damaged areas. You might interfere with rescue or restoration efforts, as well as jeopardize your own safety.
