Floods are the number 1 natural disaster in the United States, claiming approximately 200 lives per year (floodsmart.gov). Below are some essential tips to remember if there is ever a flood warning, flash flood watch, or flood advisory in your area.
- Avoid flood situations when possible. Keep an eye on your local weather reports; if you're in a flood-threatened area, evacuate to higher ground. If you have the time to prepare your home, consider securing it with these tips from the CDC.
- Can't evacuate in time? Make your way to the highest part of your house and be prepared to signal for help. Bring along all your family members and pets! An emergency kit like this one is a good thing to keep on hand for a variety of hazardous situations.
- If you're away from home when flood waters rise, immediately head for higher ground on the top floor/roof of a building close by or elevated land around you.
- Don't step into standing water if you don't know how deep it is, and steer clear of flowing water. Water doesn't have to be very deep to knock you over, and you never know when it may surge higher or carry heavy debris your way.
- Be on the lookout for downed power lines or other electrical hazards. Coming into contact with these hazards could lead to electric shock, causing muscle paralysis and making it impossible to swim resulting in a higher risk of drowning.
- Over 50% of all flood-related drowning’s vehicle related (floodsafety.com). Don't drive through flooded roads. As little as two feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.
- Wash your skin thoroughly if it comes into contact with flood water. Sewage, toxic chemicals and other unhealthy substances may contaminate the water, making it unsafe to touch (and definitely dangerous to drink)!
For plumbing-related floods, contact ARS®/Rescue Rooter® at 866-399-2885. We’re here to take your call!
