Here is a fact sheet from Jefferson County Public Health that shares flood safety information:
http://jeffco.us/Public-Health/Documents/Emergency-Preparedness-Documents/Fact-Sheets-Documents/Flood-Fact-Sheet/
FLOODS
Floods are one of the most common hazards in the United States. Floods can develop slowly, over aperiod of days, or within a few minutes, without any visible signs of rain, such as with flash floods. It
is a good idea to be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a
low lying area. Even very small streams, dry steam beds, or low lying ground that appears harmless
in dry weather can flood.
What to do in a heavy rainfall:
- Stay away from stream beds.
- Use your map. Know whether you are on low ground or below a dam.
- Move to higher ground. Many roads and trails parallel existing drainage patterns, and may be swept away by flood waters. Stay out of these low lying areas when there is a risk of flooding.
- Never attempt to outrun a flood on foot or in your vehicle, climb to safety.
- Avoid driving through flooded areas. Flood waters can rise quickly and sweep vehicles away.
- If an area is flooded, consider taking an alternate route.
Before a flood:
Know the National Weather Service terms:
- Flash flood watch means that heavy rains are occurring or may occur, and may cause flash flooding. Be Alert.
- Flash flood warning means that flash flooding is occurring or imminent. If you live in the
- warning area, you should act immediately.
During a flood:
- Be aware of possible flash flooding hazards. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
- Listen to radio or television stations for local information.
- Be aware of streams, drainage channels, canyons, or other areas prone to flooding.
- If local authorities issue a flood watch, prepare to evacuate: Secure your home; if instructed, turn off utilities at the main switches or valves; fill bathtubs with water in case water becomes contaminated or unavailable. Before filling the tub, sterilize it with a diluted bleach solution.
- Be especially careful if walking and avoid walking through moving water. Moving water can easily knock you off your feet.
- Avoid driving into flooded areas. Water may reach the bottom of most passenger vehicles causing loss of control and possible stalling.
After a flood:
- Avoid flood waters, the water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. The water may also be electrically charged from downed power lines.
- Avoid moving water.
- Be aware of areas where flood waters have receded, the road may have been weakened and may collapse under the weight of a car.
- Stay away from downed power lines and report them to the power company.
- Stay away from designated disaster areas unless authorities ask for volunteers.
- Return home only when authorities indicate it is safe. Be caution when returning, there may be hidden damage, particularly in foundations.
For addition information regarding flood preparedness and safety:
www.emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/floods www.ready.gov/floods
Flood fact sheet provided by Jefferson County Public Health, Emergency Preparedness and Response
Program 303-271-5700 or visit: http://jeffco.us/public-health/disasters-outbreaksemergencies/
emergency-preparedness/