With San Diego County still reeling from recent flooding, and up to 2.5 inches of rain predicted locally for the days ahead, it’s worth reviewing safety and preparedness advice from emergency officials.
Based on recommendations from San Diego County, FEMA, the National Weather Service, Red Cross and ready.gov, these are tips for before, during and after a major rain event.
Before a flood
Emergency plan: The county of San Diego suggests creating and going over a personal disaster plan. It should include an evacuation route, fully charged mobile phones and a ready-to-go emergency kit with important documents, food, water and medication needed. For assistance creating a personal disaster plan go to alertsandiego.org/en-us/preparedness/make-a-plan
Flood map: FEMA has an online map illustrating certain areas that are prone to flooding. Find it at msc.fema.gov/portal/home.
Sand bags: The National Weather Services recommends using sand bags to protect homes from potential flood water. The county of San Diego is providing free sand bags at numerous locations. Some locations have bags and sand, while others only bags, and residents will need to bring a shovel . The county suggest to call before going to a location to make sure it still has available supplies. Find the entire list at alertsandiego.org/en-us/recovery/sandbags.
Alerts: There is also an AlertSanDiego app where the public can register for the latest information on floods at alertsandiego.org/en-us/preparedness/SDEmergencyApp.
During a flood
Driving: Signs often seen during heavy rains near commonly flood-prone roads may offer the valuable advice: “Turn around, don’t drown.” The Red Cross states that 6 inches of flood water can knock someone down and 12 inches or more of water can carry a car away. It is also recommended to stay inside vehicles if they are caught in fast-moving water, and to get on the car roof if water is rising inside the car. Find more tips at ready.gov/floods.
Home: If trapped in a home or building, get to the highest level, but do not get into a closed attic. Also, only get on a roof if necessary and once help us on the way. For more information go to ready.gov/floods.
After a flood
Building beware: Do not go into any buildings or homes with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Also, there could be snakes or other animals inside homes and buildings after a flood.
