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8 | SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | NOVEMBER 2024 | When we think about being prepared, we usually associate it with earthquakes and fires. But with the rainy season approaching, we should consider preparing for f looding. Flooding is a temporary overf low of water, most often caused by a large amount of rain falling onto land that is normally dry. Floods are the most common disaster in the United States. Flooding can cause property damage both inside and outside your home. Flooding can also cut off access to utilities, emergency services, transportation, and may impact the overall economic well-being of an area. Banning has a minor risk for f looding, but the areas surrounding Banning are at a higher risk. The hills and mountains surrounding Banning can contribute to rapid runoff during heavy rain and cause f lash f looding. Flood warning issued: Predicting heavy rain and f looding has come a long way. Flood prediction involves using data and models to forecast the likelihood and impact of f loods. This can help reduce potential damage to people, property, and the environment. Preparing for a f lood and knowing the risks! • Listen to local weather reports, weather radio, or local alerting systems on your phone for current emergency information and instructions regarding f looding. • Find safe shelter right away! • Do not walk, swim, or drive through f lood waters. Turn around, don't drown! • Remember, just six inches of moving water can knock you down, and one foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away. • Stay off bridges over fast-moving water. Fast-moving water can wash bridges away without warning. Staying Safe During a Flood: • If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Otherwise stay in your home. Go to a higher f loor if available. • Follow the directions set up by the authorities. • Never drive around barricades. They have been placed by the authorities for your safety. • Stay inside your car if it is trapped in rapidly moving water. Get on the roof if water is rising inside the car. • Failing to evacuate f looded areas or entering f lood waters can lead to injury or death. Staying Safe After a Flood: • Pay attention to the authorities for information and instructions. Return home only when authorities say it is safe. • Only drive if it is an emergency. • When cleaning up, wear heavy work gloves, protective clothing, face mask or covering, and boots. • People with asthma, lung conditions, and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water damage. • Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. If safe, turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water. • Avoid wading in f loodwater which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris. • Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery ONLY outdoors and away from windows. For more helpful tips and information, visit Ready.gov. Being prepared will save your life! ~ Janis Rice, EPAP PIO EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS TURN AROUND! DON'T DROWN!