Tropical Storm Fay: Ten Safety Steps You Should Take

Tropical Storm Fay is moving up the East Coast, predicted to produce two to four inches of rain with some areas seeing as much as seven inches of rainfall. The storm could affect people from Maryland to southern New England and could cause flash flooding throughout the region. The American Red Cross has ten safety steps people in the path of the storm should follow.

Know the difference between a flash flood watch and warning. A flash flood WATCH means a flash flood is possible. A flash flood WARNING means flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon. Take immediate precautions.

FLASH FLOOD SAFETY

1. Listen to local area radio, NOAA radio or TV stations for the latest information and updates.
2. Be prepared to evacuate quickly and know your routes and destinations. Find a local emergency shelter. Follow evacuation orders and don’t return until officials say it is safe
3. Check your emergency kit and replenish any items missing or in short supply, especially medications or other medical supplies. Keep it nearby.
4. Turn around, don’t drown. Stay off the roads. If you must drive and you encounter a flooded roadway, turn around and go another way.
5. Don't walk, swim or drive through floodwater. Just six inches of fast-flowing water can knock you over and two feet will float a car.
6. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Head for higher ground and stay there.
7. Fill your car's gas tank in case you need to evacuate.
8. Bring in outdoor belongings such as patio furniture.
9. Bring your pets indoors and maintain direct control of them. Be sure that your pet emergency kit is ready to go in case of evacuation.
10. Stay away from floodwaters. Beware of snakes, insects and other animals that may be in or around floodwaters and your home.  Keep children and pets away from hazardous sites and floodwaters. If power lines are down, don’t step in puddles or standing water.

Download the free Red Cross Emergency App for real-time weather alerts, open shelters and expert advice on floods. The Emergency App includes an “I’m Safe” feature that helps people check on loved ones. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores, or go to redcross.org/apps.

Visit redcross.org/flood for full flood safety information.