Emergency Management Director Christopher Coleman would like to share safety tips to help community members stay safe before, during and after a flood during Flood Safety Awareness Week.
The Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) and National Weather Service Boston recognizes March 10 - 16, 2024, as Flood Safety Awareness Week. During this week, community members are encouraged to learn how to properly prepare for and stay safe in the event of flooding.
The following safety tips are courtesy of MEMA:
Before a Flood
According to MEMA, flooding is the most common hazard in Massachusetts. Community members should know the difference between flood watches and warnings. A Flood Watch or Flash Flood Watch is issued when flooding or flash flooding is possible in the area. A Flood Warning or Flash Flood Warning is issued when flooding is occurring or about to occur. Prior to a warning or watch, community members should ensure the following:
- Ensure that you’re receiving alerts, warnings and public safety information before, during and after emergencies to stay informed.
- Find out whether your property is in a flood-prone or high-risk area and if your community is at risk of flooding.
- Create and review your family emergency plan. Ensure you have a plan to go to higher ground quickly if necessary and an evacuation plan.
- Have an emergency kit on standby that includes medications, food, records of your personal property and more.
- Prepare your home for flooding and know what your insurance covers. Consider purchasing flood insurance as flood losses are not typically covered under renter and homeowner’s insurance policies.
During a Flood Watch/Warning or Flash Flood Watch/Warning
If a Flood Watch/Warning or Flash Flood Watch/Warning is issued, it’s recommended that community members take the following actions:
- Follow instructions given by public safety officials.
- Be alert to changing weather conditions and be ready to move to higher ground.
- Consider clearing street catch basins to prevent or reduce street flooding.
- Elevate items stored in your basement to prevent damage. If you have a sump pump, check that it is working.
- Move immediately to higher ground or stay on high ground if needed.
- If you must evacuate or are traveling during flooding, remember:
- Do not walk through flowing water. Most drownings occur during flash floods. Six inches of swiftly moving water can knock you off of your feet.
- Remember the phrase “Turn Around, Don’t Drown!” Don’t drive through flooded roads. Cars can be swept away in only two feet of moving water. If your vehicle is trapped in rapidly moving water, stay in the vehicle. If the water is rising inside the vehicle, seek refuge on the roof.
After a Flood
Your actions in the wake of flooding are just as important as your actions before or during a flood. After a flood, community members should:
- Continue to monitor the media for emergency information and follow instructions from public safety officials.
- Report any damages to the Town’s BigRed311 platform.
- Stay away from downed utility wires. Always assume a downed power line is live.
- Learn if your water supply is safe to drink. Until local authorities say your water supply is safe, boil water for at least one minute before drinking or using it for cooking.
- Check your home for damage:
- Never touch electrical equipment while you are wet or standing in water. Consider hiring a qualified electrician to assess damage to electrical systems.
- Have wells checked for contamination from bacteria and chemicals before using.
- Have damaged septic tanks or leaching systems repaired as soon as possible to reduce potential health hazards.
- If your home or property is damaged, take photos or videos to document your damage, and contact your insurance company.
- Clean and disinfect anything that got wet. Take precautions. Wear appropriate protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, and face masks.
As always, in the event of an emergency call 911.
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