What to Do During a Flood Watch or Warning

7/16/2021 (Permalink)

Floods can be extremely dangerous events. Not only are the waters themselves capable of causing enormous amounts of damage and loss of life, but the water itself is often contaminated with infectious disease and chemical hazards.

If there’s a flood watch or warning happening in your area, it’s important for you to spring into action immediately to prepare for the worst. The CDC recommends doing the following during a flood watch:

• Gather up your emergency kit (and if you don’t already have one, make one!);
• Stay tuned to local updates on TV. If the power’s out, use a self-powered radio to monitor.
• Build up a supply of clean water. You may want to consider filling your bathtub, sink and any clean plastic/glass bottles that you have as well. Sinks should be well-sanitized before being filled.
• If you keep anything outside (like patio furniture or your grill), bring it in or tie it down.
• If you have to evacuate, turn off your utilities and close your gas valve.
• Follow evacuation instructions exactly. Even if there is no evacuation order in place, consider leaving if you are in a particularly vulnerable location (e.g. somewhere at a low elevation).

By following these tips, you’ll be prepared in case the worst happens.