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March 7, 2008

EMA urges caution during expected flooding tomorrow

The state Emergency Management Agency today released these tips to help Rhode Islanders deal with possible flooding expected to hit the region tomorrow.

A flood watch is in effect from tonight through late tomorrow night because of the significant rainfall expected this weekend.

Rhode Island residents are urged to:

* Keep monitoring news reports, so you're aware of the impact on your community.

* For people in flood-prone areas, watch small streams and low-lying locations for early signs of flooding. Make sure street catch basins are cleared.

* Make certain your home is ready: Minimize damage from basement flooding by elevating utilities and materials that could be damaged by limited basement flooding.

* Heed the direction of local public safety officials and follow recommended evacuation routes. Shortcuts may be blocked or dangerous.

* Do not walk through flowing water. Most drownings happen during flash floods; water moving at high speed can move boulders, sweep away cars, tear out trees, destroy buildings and bridges. Six inches of swiftly moving water can knock a person off balance. If you have to walk through a flooded area, use a pole or stick to ensure that the ground is solid, even where the water is not flowing.

* Don't drive through a flooded area: More people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Cars can be swept away in just two feet of moving water. Don't drive around road barriers. The road or bridge may be washed out or structurally unsound. If your car gets trapped in floodwaters, abandon it immediately and go to higher ground.

* Avoid electrical lines and wires, as electrocution is a major killer in floods. Electrical current travels through water. Report downed power lines to your utility company or local emergency manager. Always assumed a downed wire is a live wire.

* Look before your step: After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris such as broken bottles and nails. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be slippery.

* Stay alert for leaks: Don't turn on electric lights, but use a flashlight to look for damage. A spark from the light switch could cause an explosion or fire. Don't smoke or use candles, lanterns or open flames unless you are sure gas has been turned off and the area has been aired out.

* Carbon monoxide gas kills: Use only camping stoves, generators or other gasoline-powered machines outside. Charcoal fumes are especially deadly so don't used the machines indoors.

* Clean everything that gets wet. Floodwaters have probably picked up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms and factories. Spoiled food and flooded medicines and cosmetics are health hazards. When in doubt, throw them away.

* Be ready for a rough time: Recovering from a flood is a big job. "It is rough on the body and the spirit. The after-effects of this type of disaster on you and your family may last a long time. Consult a health professional on how to recognize and care for anxiety, stress and fatigue," the EMA news release says.

-- projo.com staff writer Michael P. McKinney

Posted by Mike McKinney  at 5:15 PM | Permalink

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