CLEARFIELD – With Ernesto working its way up the East Coast and the the two-year anniversary of Ivan only a few weeks away, the Clearfield Volunteer Fire Department is reminding everyone of some flood safety tips.
- Do Not Walk Through Flowing Water
Drowning is the No. 1 cause of flood deaths. Most occur during flash floods. Six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. Use a pole or stick to make sure that the ground is still there before you go through an area where the water is not flowing.
- Do Not Drive Through a Flooded Area
More people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Don’t drive around road barriers; the road or bridge may be washed out.
- Stay Away From Power Lines and Electrical Wires
Electrocution is also a major killer in floods. Electrical current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to your utility company or local emergency manager.
- Look Before You Step
After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris including broken bottles and nails. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be very slippery.
- Stay Out Of Flooded Basements
Standing water in a basement can be an extreme hazard. It could be energized by electrical outlets or could pose a health hazard due to contamination. When mass flooding occurs, the fire department must categorize all calls by severity and will respond accordingly. Some residents may have to wait several hours or until water recedes until their request is handled.
GantDaily editor’s note: CNN is reporting that Ernesto should make landfall late Thursday or early Friday in South Carolina. The storm is then expected to travel northward into the mid-Atlantic region.