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Flood safety |
During a flood
Do not walk through flowing water. Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths, mostly during flash floods. Currents can be deceptive; six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. If you walk in standing water, use a pole or stick to ensure that the ground is still there.
Do not drive through a flooded area. More people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Don’t drive around road barriers; the road or bridge may be washed out.
Stay away from power lines and electrical wires. The number two flood killer after drowning is electrocution. Electrical current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to your local utility provider.
Look out for animals, especially snakes. Small animals that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to poke and turn things over and scare away small animals.
Look before you step. After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris including broken bottles and nails. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be very slippery.
Be alert for gas leaks. Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don’t smoke or use candles, lanterns or open flames unless you know that the gas has been turned off and the area has been ventilated.
Tune to local radio stations. Use a battery opertated radio to get the latest emergency information.
Resources
Clark Regional Emergency Services Agency - Emergency Management
www.cresa911.org/dem.htm
National Weather Service
www.wrh.noaa.gov/pqr/
Road conditions
www.wsdot.wa.gov/traffic/vancouver/VancouverTraffic/
Real time river gauge
fortress.wa.gov/ecy/wrx/wrx/flows/regions/state.asp?region=1 and water.usgs.gov/waterwatch/?m=real&r=wa
When the storm is over, what do you do next?
