|
NEWS RELEASE
GEMA Urges Georgians to Beware, Prepare for Floods
(ATLANTA) - With widespread flooding throughout metro Atlanta and more rain in the forecast, the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) urges residents to prepare for floods.
This round of flooding is a result of intense storms dropping large amounts of rain within a brief period of time. Communities particularly at risk are those located in low-lying areas, near water, or downstream from a dam.
“Remember, flash floods are the No. 1 weather-related killer in the United States,” says GEMA Director Charley English. “Turn around when you come to a flooded area; never drive through flooded roads.”
Six inches of fast-moving water can knock a person off of his or her feet, and two feet of water can float a full-size automobile. More than half of flood victims are in vehicles that moving water sweeps away.
Make it a priority to prepare for floods now so you aren’t caught off-guard the next time the waters rise.
Stay Informed
- If it has been raining hard for several hours, or steadily raining for several days, be alert to the possibility of a flood.
- Closely monitor a local radio station, TV station or NOAA Weather Radio for flood information.
- Follow the instructions of local officials. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
- Move to higher ground away from rivers, streams, creeks, and storm drains. Do not drive around barricades. They are there for your safety.
- Stay out of floodwaters, if possible. The water may be contaminated or electrically charged. However, if your car stalls in rapidly rising waters, get out immediately and seek higher ground.
- Stay away from downed power lines to avoid the risk of electric shock or electrocution.
- Do not return to your home until local authorities say it is safe. Even after floodwaters recede, roads and bridges may be weakened and could collapse. Buildings may be unstable, and drinking water may be contaminated. Use common sense and exercise caution.
Always Have a Plan to Evacuate
- Get a disaster supplies kit and prepare a portable Ready kit in case you have to evacuate. Plan how you will leave and where you will go if you are advised to evacuate.
- If you have a car, fill the gas tank.
- If you do not have a car, plan alternate means of evacuating.
- Move your furniture and valuables to higher floors of your home.
Prepare for Flooding
- Know your area's flood risk – if unsure, call your local floodplain management office.
- Property insurance does not typically cover flood damage. Talk to your insurance provider about your policy and consider if you need additional coverage. The National Flood Insurance Program is designed to provide reasonable flood insurance in exchange for the careful management of flood-prone areas by local communities. The program, administered by FEMA, is available in hundreds of participating Georgia communities. Visit www.fema.gov/business/nfip for more information.
- Reduce potential flood damage by raising your furnace, water heater, and electric panel if they are in areas of your home that may be flooded.
GEMA’s mission to provide a comprehensive and aggressive all-hazards approach to mitigation, preparedness, response, recovery and special events. For the latest updates and to learn more about GEMA, visit www.gema.ga.gov. To learn how to prepare for flooding and other natural and man-made disasters, visit www.ready.ga.gov.
# # #
Post Office Box 18055 - Atlanta, Georgia 30316-0055
Phone (404) 635-7000 or toll-free in Georgia 1-800-TRY-GEMA - Fax (404)635-7205
www.gema.ga.gov
www.ready.ga.gov
www.georgia911.org
|
printer friendly