New Haven, Connecticut

... This week is National flood safety awareness week...

Today's topic is flood safety.

Flooding can occur from a variety of causes all year round.
So... what can you do to protect yourself... your loved ones and your
property from the dangers of flooding? That is the goal of flood
safety awareness week.

First and foremost... if you encounter a flooded Road... especially
one in which water is flowing over... turn around and find an
alternate Route. Do not drive through a flooded Road. You are
placing yourself and those with you in grave danger. This is how 50
percent of all flood deaths occur in the United States.
Turn around... don't drown!

It is important to keep informed of the latest forecasts especially
if you live... work or have to drive through a flood prone area.
The National Weather Service issues flood watches when the potential
exists for flooding in low lying and poor drainage areas and along
streams... creeks and rivers. When a Flood Watch is issued... it means
that there is about a 50 percent chance of flooding.

When a watch is in effect... you should closely monitor streams near
your residence and be prepared to evacuate at a moments notice
should flooding occur or a warning is issued. If you have to
evacuate... you will want to make sure you bring enough supplies to
last for at least 3 days or longer. This includes at least one
change of clothing for each person... a blanket or sleeping bag per
person... medicines... a radio... Cash and credit cards and special
items for the elderly... infants or disabled family members.

Flood warnings are issued with at least 80 percent forecast
confidence. When you receive a Flood Warning... evacuate immediately
if advised to do so. Don't drive if you don't have to. Get out of
areas subject to flooding. Never try to walk... swim... drive or play
in flood waters. You may not be able to see holes or submerged
debris. Be cautious at night when it is harder to recognize
flood dangers.

The best way to receive information on flood watches... warnings and
advisories is through NOAA all hazards radio... a special kind of
radio station devoted to weather forecasts and warnings. The
National Weather Service operates over 900 of these radio stations
nationwide. Broadcasts can be heard from New York City and Montville
CT on 162.55 mhz... from Riverhead NY on 162.475 mhz and from Meriden
CT on 162.40 mhz. Many scanners and special weather radios sold at
most electronics stores can pick up alerts when the National Weather
Service issues flood watches or warnings.

For more information on flood awareness week use this web site:

Http://www.Erh.NOAA.Gov/okx/floodawareness_week2010.Html

If you need additional information... contact Gary conte or Nancy
furbush via email at Gary.Conte@noaa.Gov or Nancy.Furbush@noaa.Gov.