Public Safety Office Offers Flood Facts

Public Safety Office Offers Flood Facts


Mar. 4, 2010

Flooding may become a major problem in the local area as the large amount of snowfall from February's storms begins to melt.
"We are very concerned about that likelihood as the temperatures warm up beginning this week," said Director Brad Frantz, Garrett County Department of Emergency Management.

With that in mind, the director offers the following flood fact sheet from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA):

DURING A FLOOD

If a flood is likely in your area, you should:

•Listen to the radio or television for information.

•Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.

•Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without such typical warnings as rain clouds or heavy rain.

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following:

•Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.

•Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.

If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips:

•Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.

•Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safety. You and the vehicle can be quickly swept away.

DRIVING FLOOD FACTS

The following are important points to remember when driving in flood conditions:

•Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.

•A foot of water will float many vehicles.

•Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles, including sport utility vehicles (SUVs) and pickups.


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