7 flood safety tips for New Orleans residents

A system in the Gulf may bring heavy rain to the area over the weekend, potentially causing flash flooding. Nonprofit organization Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) has compiled a list of flood-related tips to keep New Orleans residents safe through the weekend weather.

Before the Flood

All it takes is a few inches of water to cause major damage to your home and its contents.

Clear yard of any debris, plant material, or items (garden décor, foliage, or garbage cans) that can block water flow and storm drains.

Place important papers (birth/marriage certificates, passports, bank and insurance information) in a watertight container. Take photographs or videos to create an inventory of your personal possessions and keep the camera card handy in case of evacuation.

Identify and move electronics and other expensive items (computers, televisions, phone systems, area rugs, expensive furniture) on lower levels of the home and elevate if possible to keep them dry.

During the Flood

Avoid flooded areas or those with rapid water flow. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream. It takes only six inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet.

Don’t allow children to play near high water, storm drains, or ditches. Hidden dangers could lie beneath the water.

Flooded roads could have significant damage hidden by floodwaters. Never drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads.

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to see flooded roads.

And remember, FLASH reminds residents to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” and offers simple tips to protect your home from costly flood damage.Eighteen to 24 inches of moving water can wash an SUV off of the road. In fact, according to the National Weather Service, more than half of all flood-related deaths are people driving through flooded roads.

This story was original posted by Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)®, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, is the country’s leading consumer advocate for strengthening homes and safeguarding families from natural and manmade disasters. To learn more about how much flooding can cost you check out this cost of flooding tool provided by FloodSmart. For information on floodproofing your home, visit FLASH or FEMA.