Before, During, & After Severe Rain Weather

Before

Before severe rain weather, do the following:

  • Make sure your Family Disaster Supplies Kit is stocked, up-to-date, and stored where you can get it easily.
  • Prepare and regularly review your Family Emergency Plan with every member of your family. This should include discussing safe routes from home, work, and school to high school, in the event of flooding.
  • Check your home to ensure doors and windows are secure, roof leaks repaired, water drains properly working, rain gutters clear.
  • If your property is located in a flood-prone area, strongly consider adding flooding coverage to your homeowners insurance.
  • Learn how to turn off gas, electric power and water in your home.
  • Visit your local fire station to obtain free sand and sandbags. Call the following stations for availability:
    • Call Fire Station Number 119 at 909-598-4290
    • Call Fire Station Number 120 at 909-861-5995
    • Call Fire Station Number 121 at 909-396-0164

During

During severe rain weather, do the following:

  • Be prepared to evacuate at a moment’s notice.
  • Stay tuned to your radio, television, or NOAA Weather Radio for possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress or other critical information.
  • Keep away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off of your feet.
  • If you are driving, avoid already flooded areas and areas subject flooding. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams or water covered roads. As little as six inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle. If your route is blocked by floodwater or barricades, find another route. Barricades are put up to protect you from unsafe roads; driving around them can be a serious risk.

After

After severe rain weather, do the following:

  • Return home only when officials have declared the area safe.
  • Watch out for wild animals that may have come into your home with the floodwater.
  • If you smell natural or propane gas or hear a hissing noise, leave immediately and call the fire department.
  • If power lines are down outside your home, do not step in puddles or standing water.
  • During cleanup, wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and rubber boots.
  • Discard food items that have come in contact with floodwater, including canned goods, and water bottles.

Source

This information was obtained from American Red Cross and FEMA.