DATE: August 26, 2016
CONTACT: Ric Barrick
Assistant Director, Office of Public Communications
PHONE: 954-357-8541
EMAIL: Rbarrick@broward.org
BROWARD COUNTY, FL - With the potential of heavy rainfall in our area this weekend, Broward County is encouraging residents and businesses to be proactive and prepare for potential flooding associated with a tropical wave that is expected to pass through southern Florida beginning Saturday.
Floods can be slow or fast rising. It's important to be prepared for flooding no matter where you live in the County, but particularly if you are in a low-lying area or near water. Although not commonly known, flooding kills more people than any other natural disaster in the nation.
Here are a few flood safety tips:
Pre-Planning
- Review and familiarize yourself with your homeowner and flood insurance policies.
- Clear catch basins, drain covers, swale areas and eave troughs (gutters) of debris.
- Keep insurance papers, important documents, and other valuables in a safe deposit box.
- Put away loose items that could impede water drainage (such as trash receptacles).
During a Flood
- Heed barricades blocking roads.
- Keep away from waterways during heavy rains.
- Watch out for animals who've lost their homes during a flood. Animals may seek shelter in your home and aggressively defend themselves.
- More
After a Flood
- Document any damage with photographs.
- Inspect the building. Make sure there is no structural damage and the building is not in danger of collapsing.
- Be alert for holes in the floor, loose boards, hanging or loose plaster, snakes or other hazards.
- Do not activate any electrical switch or appliance until the entire electrical system has been checked. Some circuits above the flood level may still be energized.
- More
As part of their home emergency kit residents are also encouraged to store a supply of drinking water, a minimum of one gallon per person per day for three days. Remember, water system boundaries do not always correspond to city boundaries. Therefore, it is important to know who your water service provider is and to be aware of any "boil water" order. Following the rain, please make sure to get rid of any standing water to eliminate any potential mosquito breeding grounds.
For more information on how to prepare for a flood or severe weather and additional resources, visit our website and follow @ReadyBroward on Twitter for the latest updates.
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