Tips On How To Stay Safe Around Flooding
We have a Tropical Storm watch in effect today as Tropical Storm Isiasis makes its way through the mid Atlantic. The worst of it will come through between the late morning and afternoon. We will see wind speeds up to 45-55 mph with gusts up to 65 mph. These wind speeds are strong enough to knock down trees or power lines. According to the weather channel, conditions are favorable for a tornado so there is a tornado watch in effect until noon. However, you really want to be aware that we have a flash flood watch in effect until midnight on August 5th, as we could see up to 3-5 inches of rain.
According to DEMA, a flash flood watch means that flash flooding is possible and you should be prepared to move to higher ground. They offered some tips on how to stay safe around flooding and we thing it’s important to share with you:
- If water has entered a garage or basement, do not walk through it. It may contain hazardous materials.
- Do not try to drive over a flooded road. If your car stalls, abandon it immediately. Attempting to move a stalled vehicle in flood conditions can be fatal.
- Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you must walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
- Stay clear of water that is in contact with downed power lines.
- Do not allow children to play around high water, storm drains, or any flooded areas.
See here for other ways to ensure that you are prepared for an emergency.
