Flood Safety Tips

Spring time has finally arrived, and Old Man Winter is now hibernating.  However, the effects of his winter are still with us.  When the temperatures rise  and the snow melts, it can produce large amounts of runoff water in a short period of time.  In the early  Spring, the land is still frozen preventing the melting snow or rainfall from seeping into the ground.  This causes the water to run into lakes, streams and rivers, which could result in a flood.  These tips from The National Geographic will help educate and prepare you in the event of a flood.

• Buy flood insurance before there is a threat.
• Build barriers to  prevent floodwater from entering your house.
• Seal wall in basements with waterproofing compounds.
• Bring in any outdoor  furniture.
• Move essential items to an upper floor.
• Turn off utilities at the main switches.
• Disconnect electrical   appliances.
• Do not walk through  moving water.
• Avoid floodwaters; water may be contaminated.
• Make sure water supply is safe to drink.

Although we are at a higher risk of flooding in the early Spring, just remember “April showers bring May flowers.”