What to Do in a Flooding Emergency: Expert Advice

Flooding can occur with little warning, causing catastrophic damage and even loss of life. Knowing what to do in a flooding emergency is crucial to ensure your safety and that of your loved ones. This blog post will provide expert advice on how to handle a flooding emergency, based on insights from Gerry Dworkin, a consultant for aquatic safety and water rescue for Lifesaving Resources, and Stephanie Fox, national spokesperson for the American Red Cross.

Understanding Flood Advisories

Flood advisories come in three forms: watches, advisories, and warnings. A watch indicates potential flooding in the future, so it's important to stay alert and prepared. An advisory suggests that flooding is likely to occur, though not necessarily severe. A warning, however, means that flooding is imminent or already happening, and immediate action is required.

Planning Ahead of a Flood

Knowing your risk area is crucial. Are you living in an area prone to flooding or with poor drainage? Stay in touch with local officials and your office of emergency management to be aware of any evacuation orders.

Prepare an emergency kit that can sustain you for at least two weeks if you are stuck in your home. If you need to evacuate to a shelter, your kit should be able to sustain you for three days. It should include necessities like food, water, and other essentials.

What to Do Once Flooding Has Started

Once flooding has started, refer back to your evacuation plan. Stay updated with your office of emergency management and local meteorologist for the latest information. If you feel at risk, don't wait for an evacuation order to leave your home.

Navigating Flooded Roadways

The phrase "turn around, don't drown" is a crucial guideline when encountering flooded roads. Never attempt to drive around barriers or through flooded roads. The integrity of the road below the water is unknown, and it only takes a foot of water to float a vehicle off its wheels.

What to Do If You Get Swept Away by Floodwaters in Your Car

If your vehicle ends up in water, prioritize your safety over everything else. Don't waste time trying to call for help. Instead, disengage your seat belt, open your window, get children out, and exit the vehicle as quickly as you can. A vehicle will only float for a short time before becoming submerged in water.

Flooding emergencies are unpredictable and can be terrifying. However, with the right knowledge and preparation, you can navigate these situations effectively. Stay safe and remember to always prioritize your safety and that of others around you.

Reference: Yahoo News