As another storm moves into San Diego County, the Office of Emergency Services is reminding residents to prepare before the next storm by assembling an emergency supply kit for your home, workplace and vehicle in the event of an evacuation or power outage. Remember to store at least a 3-day supply of water, at least one gallon of water per person, per day. Store sandbags, plastic sheeting, lumber or plywood to protect your home if needed. Fill up your vehicle's gas tank because a power outage could make gas pumps inopearable. Identify safe routes from your home or work place to high, safe ground.
If approaching a flooded area, intersection, creek or riverbed, do NOT drive or walk through moving water. Over the past several days, San Diego Swiftwater Rescue teams have had to rescue many residents and motorists who have not heeded the warnings. A car can float in three inches of water and six inches of water can knock down and sweep an adult away. Floodwater is dangerous, fast-moving, often toxic and can carry debris such as glass or sharp items.
If local authorities order an evacuation for your community, residents are advised to be prepared to move to a safe area before flood waters cut off access. If asked to evacuate, relocate valuables from lower to upper floors or attempt to elevate them as much as possible. Residents should also disconnect all electrical appliances or turn off electric circuits at the fuse panel or circuit breaker panel before leaving.
Listen to the radio or watch television for information or instructions. For more information on winter storm and flooding preparation, visit www.ReadySanDiego.org and click on the Flooding icon. County road closures can be found at on the County Department of Public Works Twitter page.
