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a car flooded up to its windows as a result of the Hurricane Florence storm surge.

Floods

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Safety Tips for Floods

  • Have a plan in place before an evacuation is ordered. To learn more about creating an Emergency Plan, visit: https://www.ready.gov/make-a-plan
  • Avoid walking or driving through flood waters
  • Talk to your neighbors about their plans, and encourage them to evacuate early
  • If there is a chance of flash flooding, move immediately to higher ground
  • Turn on your TV/radio. You will receive the latest weather updates and emergency instructions
  • Disconnect electrical appliances and do not touch electrical equipment

Before a Flood

  • Assess the safety of your residence and belongings
  • Clean drains and gutters around the house
  • Plan for sandbags. Visit your local fire station if sandbags are needed
  • Maintain all slopes in a safe manner. Roots bring stability to soil

During a Flood

  • Do not cross rapidly flowing streams
  • Check drainage systems at your home and driveways
  • Watch for mudslides and adjust drainage to reduce mudslides

After a Flood

  • Don’t return to your flood damaged home if area is not safe
  • Sandbags may help divert flood water (unless there is large debris flow)
  • Drive slowly and carefully as many roads may have mud debris, holes, and washed-out areas
  • Assess damage, check hillsides and houses

Learn more about what to do in the event of a emergency

Prepared by the Los Angeles Fire Department, this Emergency Preparedness Guide has valuable information about a wide range of emergencies.