Red Cross Tips for Flood Preparation
With the coming winter rains, there is an increased risk of flooding in the Seattle and Puget Sound area.
The Seattle Red Cross has tips for keeping safe in the event of a flood.
Among the Red Cross’s tips are:
- Have an evacuation plan and practice it.
- Make sure everyone knows how to shut off your home’s gas, electricity and water.
- And do not drive through flood waters—80% of people who die in floods are in motor vehicles.
Red Cross Urges Residents to Prepare for Potential Flooding
SEATTLE, November 5, 2008- The American Red Cross wants people to be aware of the possibility of flooding in our area and to be prepared if a flood should happen.
“The forecast for the coming days includes a lot of rain so people should be aware to the possibility of flooding,” said Carol Dunn, a community disaster educator for the American Red Cross. “Now is the time to make sure all family members know how to turn off gas, electricity, and water. You also should practice and plan an evacuation route.”
“If a flood watch is issued move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home,” Dunn added. “It is also a good idea to fill your car’s gas tank in case an evacuation notice is issued.”
Flood Safety Tips:
- Eighty percent of those people who die as a result of flooding are in vehicles. If you come upon a barricade, turn around and go another way.
- If you come upon flood waters, do NOT drive through them; the road could be washed out underneath.If you are driving and your car stalls, abandon your vehicle and head to higher ground.
- If you are advised to leave before flooding occurs, do so right away.
- Only if you have time – bring valuables and furniture to higher levels of your home; turn off the electrical power at the main source; secure the building.
For more safety tips and information on flooding please visit www.seattleredcross.org <http://www.seattleredcross.org/> or www.redcrosswashington.org <http://www.redcrosswashington.org/> .
Category: Disaster Preparation, Public Health, Safety
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