Safety important in aftermath

When a flood hits, the top priority is keeping your family safe. Knowing what to do when affected by a flood can make this easier to do in an emergency situation.

The following are suggestions from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the American Red Cross on how to stay safe in a flood.

• Because flood waters rise rapidly, it is important to evacuate your home and move to a safe area before access is cut off. If you do get trapped in your home, move to the second floor or the roof and wait for rescue teams.
• Do not attempt to walk or drive through flowing water. If your car stalls in a flooded area, evacuate and move to higher ground.
• Keep away from power lines and electrical wires. Electrocution is a significant cause of death in floods.
• Turn off your electricity when you return home.
• If you use gas heating in your home, check for leaks and refrain from smoking, lighting candles or using open flames until the gas is turned off and the area is aired out.

Warnings and instructions during a flood are available on radio and television. The primary station for Whatcom County emergency broadcasting is KGMI 790 AM. River conditions and forecast information during a flood is also available by calling 738-4551.

Help is available for people who have been flooded out of their homes. "We provide food, clothes and shelter for those who have been flooded," said Rosalind Crook, disaster services program coordinator of the Whatcom County Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Help is also available for the pets of families that have been flooded. An agreement between the Red Cross and the Humane Society establishes temporary housing for pets whose owners have been flooded, Crook said.

Emotional health is also important during crisis situations like floods. It is important to discuss your problems with family and friends, rest often and eat well and seek professional help if you need help coping.

Paying attention to the ways in which your children react to the flood is imperative. Some children may feel helpless or become intensely preoccupied with the event. Encourage your kids to talk about the flood and how they feel.

- Kasey Halmagyi