Dangers Of Flooding

Experts say most deaths in floods occur when people become trapped in their cars. Too often, experts say, people try to drive through water moving across roads. This is dangerous because it takes as little as six inches of water to sweep your car off the road. Remember, you never know how deep the water is until it's too late.

Flood Safety

• Never drive or walk through flood waters.
• If you cannot see the roadway, take a different route.
• Move to higher ground immediately if water begins to rise.
• Never go past an area that is roped off or blocked by police. It's blocked for a reason.
• When a flash flood warning is issued, or if you think it has already started, evacuate immediately. You may have only seconds to escape, so act quickly and move to higher ground.
• If your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.
• If you experience flooding and need help, call your local authorities immediately.

Preparing For Flooding

Floods can take a few minutes to a few hours to develop, and if you live in a flood prone area, you should take the following steps to protect yourself.

1. Prepare a family disaster plan. Identify where you could go if told to evacuate. Choose several places, such as a friend's home in another town, a motel or a shelter.

2. Keep insurance policies, documents and other valuables in a safe-deposit box.

3. When a flood warning is issued, tune into NEWS 9, or 92.5 FM, 104.1 FM or 1520 AM on your radio dial for the latest information and advice.

Make A Disaster Kit

When preparing for a flood, or any natural disaster, you should have a disaster supply kit. Your kit should include the following items:

• First aid kit and essential medications
• Canned food and a can opener
• At least three gallons of water per person
• Protective clothing, rainwear and bedding or sleeping bags
• Battery-powered radio, flashlight and extra batteries
• Special items for infants, elderly or disabled family members
• Written instructions for how to turn off electricity, gas and water if authorities advise you to do so

Weather Radios

Weather radios are another great resource for weather information, especially if the power goes out. Here are the features to look for:

1. The radio should be battery-operated.

2. The radio should be NOAA-approved.

3. Is the radio one that you, not the salesman, can easily program to suit your needs?

4. Is the radio alarm loud enough to wake you?

Listen to weather radio broadcasts online at NOAA Weather Radio.