Flood safety tips

Avoiding danger

The American Red Cross recommends the following steps to remain safe during floods. As much as 90 percent of the damage related to all natural disasters is caused by floods and associated debris flows.

• If you come upon floodwaters, stop, turn around, and go another way. Climb to higher ground. If it is moving swiftly, even water 6 inches deep can knock you off your feet. Many people are swept away wading through floodwaters, resulting in injury or death.
• Stay away from flooded areas. Even if it seems safe, floodwaters may still be rising.
• Never try to walk, swim, drive or play in floodwater. You may not be able to see on the surface how fast floodwater is moving or see holes and submerged debris.
• If you are in a vehicle and become surrounded by water, if you can get out safely, do so immediately and move to higher ground. Vehicles can be swept away.
• Listen continuously to a NOAA Weather Radio, or a portable, battery-powered radio or television, for updated emergency information.
• Local stations provide the best advice for your particular situation.

Safe water

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources offered the following tips to ensure safe drinking water during a flood. During floods, water lines can lose pressure, become cracked or go out entirely. In case you are unsure of the safety of your water, you should:

• Boil water vigorously for three minutes before use.
• Do not use ice from an automatic icemaker or any ice made from unboiled water.
• Disinfect dishes and other food utensils by immersing them in a clean water bath that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon.
• Allow water to cool sufficiently before drinking.