Southeast Under Flood Warnings — Follow these Safety Steps

The National Weather Service has issued flash flood watches and warnings for several states in the southeast and the American Red Cross is currently responding in several communities across Georgia and Alabama. States affected include northern Florida, Georgia, Alabama, North Carolina and South Carolina. 

People in areas with flood warnings should follow these important flooding safety steps and anyone who needs a safe place to go can find information for open Red Cross shelters on redcross.org, 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or the free Red Cross Emergency app which also gives you real time storm information and safety tips. The Emergency app is available in app stores by searching for the American Red Cross or going to redcross.org/apps.

FLOODING SAFETY

A flood or flash flood watch means a flash flood or flooding is possible. A flood or flash flood warning means flooding is already occurring or will happen soon — take immediate precautions.

• 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.
• Follow evacuation routes and do not try to take shortcuts because they may be blocked.
• 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.
• Do not use water that could be contaminated to wash dishes, brush teeth, prepare food, wash hands, make ice or make baby formula.
• Offer help to people who require special assistance including older adults, those without transportation, large families, people with disabilities and the people who care for them.

• If power lines are down outside your home, do not step in puddles or standing water. Report them immediately to the power company.
• If any gas or electrical appliances were flooded, don’t use them until they have been checked for safety.
• Dispose of any food that has come into contact with flood water.
• Take pictures of home damage, both of the buildings and its contents, for insurance purposes.

HOW YOU CAN HELP You can help people affected by disasters like floods and countless other crises by making a gift to Red Cross Disaster Relief. Your gift is a commitment to helping people in need, and every single donation matters. Your gift enables the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from disasters big and small. Visit redcross.org, call 800-RED-CROSS, or text the word REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.