American Red Cross safety tips for a potentially wet holiday weekend

[September 01, 2012]  SPRINGFIELD -- The remnants of Tropical Storm Isaac are forecast to track northward in the Midwest and central Illinois this holiday weekend, potentially dumping 3-6 inches of rain in the storm's path. The Red Cross wants those who have holiday travel or outdoor plans to be safe and prepared for anything and offers the following preparedness tips:

For travel and being outdoors:

• If traveling in heavy rain, drive slowly, leave plenty of room between your car and other motorists in case you have to stop quickly on a slick road, and pull off onto the shoulder with flashing hazard lights on if visibility becomes too limited.

• NEVER drive through a flooded roadway. Cars can stall and become stuck, which is particularly dangerous during a flash flood situation. Turn around and go another way.

• Keep an emergency preparedness kit in your vehicle with items like water, food, a first-aid kit, and a flashlight, in case you get stuck.

• Stay away from floodwaters. Six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep a person off their feet. If you come upon a steam or creek where water is above your ankles, turn around and find another way.

• Listen to area radio and television stations and NOAA Weather Radio for possible flood warnings and reports of flooding in progress or other critical information from the National Weather Service.

• Many campgrounds are in low-lying areas that are prone to flooding. Be aware of the conditions and forecast if your holiday plans involve camping.

• If possible, postpone outdoor activities if thunderstorms are likely to occur. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be in danger from lightning.

For home:

• If your home has a basement, test your sump pump ahead of time to make sure it's working, just in case.

• Have an emergency preparedness kit somewhere in the house, including items such as water, food, a first-aid kit, flashlight and extra batteries, rain gear, extra copies of important documents, medication, etc. (Visit www.redcross.org for a full list of items to have.)

• Pay special attention to the local weather forecast if you live near a creek or stream, and be prepared to act if heavy rain causes fast-rising, fast-moving water. Have a NOAA Weather Radio handy in case a flash flood watch or warning occurs for your area.

For more information on travel safety, flood and thunderstorm safety, and other emergency preparedness, visit www.il-redcross.org.

[Text from file received from American Red Cross, Illinois Capital Area Chapter]