Floods:
A major flood can be a serious catastrophe. Federal agencies estimate that about 125 people die every year in the United States because of flooding. Preparing for flood conditions and responding to them effectively can reduce the dangers caused by floods and their aftermath. The following frequently asked questions will help workers understand how floods and responding to floods may affect their health and safety.
What are public warnings for floods, what do they mean, and what should I do?
Flood Watch: Flooding is now possible and the situation could worsen, so watch water levels, stay tuned to local radio or TV for further advisories, alert neighbors, check pets and livestock and reconsider travel plans. A Flood Watch will be issued for situations related to widespread general flooding.
Flood Warning: Take action - the flood is now expected, so put your flood plan into action. A Flood Warning will be issued when inundation of a normally dry area near a stream or other watercourse is expected, or unusually severe ponding of water is expected. At this time you should move pets, vehicles, food and valuables to safety. You should put sandbags or flood boards in place and prepare to evacuate your home by turning off the gas and electricity.
River Flood Warning: River Flood Warnings will be issued when a river at a gauge site is expected to, or has, exceeded flood stage.
Flash Flood Watch: A Flash Flood Watch will be issued for serious situations in which life and/or property are in danger. Flash Flood watch covers flash flooding, widespread urban and small stream, and headwater flood events.
Flash Flood Warning: A Flash Flood Warning will be issued in response to a few hours of locally heavy rainfall, a dam or levee failure, or water released from an ice jam rapidly flooding nearby land.
Urban and Small Streams Flood Warning/Advisory: An Urban and Small Streams Flood Warning or Advisory will be issued when flooding of small streams, streets, and low-lying areas, such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains, is occurring.
For more information on Summer safety
Emergency Preparedness:
The South Lake Tahoe Emergency Management Community Council (EMCC) was established in 2006. The EMCC is a multi-disciplinary group of emergency responders in the Lake Tahoe Basin which includes El Dorado, Douglas and Alpine Counties. The council members collaborate for the community benefit to identify emergency management issues, develop plans based on the National Incident Management System (NIMS), work on enhanced communication and collaboration, carry out planning and exercises, and work with local agencies to develop a unified community approach to emergency management.
Free downloadable copy of the Emergency Preparedness Guide