Dealing with Heavy Rains Be cautious ofstreams, drainage channels andareas known to floodsuddenly. Lea rn ing fo r better livin g Floods are the most common and widespread of all natural hazards. Some floods develop over a period of days, but flash floods can result in raging waters in just a few minutes. Flash floods carry a deadly cargo of rocks, mud and other debris and can occur without any visible sign ofrainfall. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, dry streambeds or low-lying ground that appear harmless in dry weather can flood, so be prepared. To find out if there is a chance of flooding in your area, listen to local radio or television stations for information. It is helpful to know the terms used to describe flooding. T ake time to become familiar with the following terms. Flood Watch Flooding is possible. Flash Flood Watch Flash flooding is possible. Move to higher ground. A flash flood could occur without any warning. Flood Warning Flooding is occurring or will occur soon. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Flash Flood Warning A flash flood is occurring. Seek higher ground on foot immed iately . Do not wait for instruction to move. Urban and Small Stream Advisory Flooding of small streams, streets and low-lying areas is occurring. Be cautious of streams, drainage channels and areas known to flood suddenly. Stay away from these areas until you know they are safe. If local authorities issue a flood watch, take the following steps to prepare to evacuate: Secure your home. If you have time, bring outdoor garden equipment and lawn furniture inside or tie it down. Move essential items to the upper floors of you home or high cupboards or counter.
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L e a r n i n g f o r b e t t e r l i v i
If instructed to, turn off utilities at the main switches or valve
Disconnect electrical applicants, but do not touch electrica
equipment if you are wt or standing in water.
Fill your car with fuel.
Fill the bathtub with water in case water becomes contaminat
or services are cut off. Sterilize the bathtub first.
Stay away from flood waters. They could be contaminated.
Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can kno
you off your feet. If you much walk in a flooded area, walk where the
water is not moving. You can use a stick to check the firmness of the
ground in front of you.
Do not drive into flooded areas. If flood waters rise around your car,
abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. Yo
and your vehicle can be quickly swept away as flood waters rise.
If you are uncertain of the purity of the water supply in your area, purif
it before using it for drinking, food preparation, or hygiene. In addition
having a bad odor and taste, contaminated water can contain disease
causing microorganisms.
It is important that everyone in your household drink the amount of wat
they need to avoid becoming dehydrated. Never ration water, unless yo
are ordered to do so by authorities. Drink the water you need today an
try to find more for tomorrow. You can minimize the amount of water yo
body needs by reducing activity and staying cool.
Following these safety guidelines can help your family survive a disaste
For more information contact your local emergency management offic
or the American Red Cross chapter.
Karen P. Varcoe, Consumer Education Specialist, University of California, Cooperative Extension, in collaboration withUCs Spanish News Service.