In recent years, Colorado and Wyoming have seen major flooding and damage when rains have occurred on wildfire burn scar areas. This year that trend will continue. Even moderate rainfall rates can cause significant flooding in the first few years after a forest fire. If you are in or near a burn scar area, you need to plan ahead and be aware of the weather. Rainfall upstream of you can cause a flash flood to come roaring down the mountain to where it is not raining.
The American Red Cross has steps people can take to remain safe from the dangers of flash floods.
FLOOD SAFETY
- Know the difference. A flood/flash flood watch means a flood/flash flood is possible in your area. A flood/flash flood warning means flooding/flash flooding is already occurring or will occur soon in your area. Move Immediately to higher ground or stay on high ground. Follow any evacuation orders.
- Listen to local radio, NOAA radio or TV stations for the latest information and updates. People should keep informed about weather conditions and listen to the advice of local officials.
- Check your emergency kitand replenish any items missing or in short supply. Keep it nearby.
- Turn around, don’t drown. If driving, turn around and go another way. If you are caught on a flooded road and waters are rising rapidly around you, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground. Most cars can be swept away by less than two feet of moving water.
- Stay away from floodwaters. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way.
- Keep children and pets out of the water.
- Be especially cautious at night when it’s harder to see flood danger.
RETURNING HOME
- After a flood, do not attempt to return to affected areas until officials say it is safe to do so.
- Once you are able to go home, look for loose power lines, damaged gas lines, cracks in the foundation or other damage before you enter your home.
- During cleanup, wear protective clothing, including rubber gloves and rubber boots.
- Watch out for wild animals, especially poisonous snakes that may have come into your home with the floodwater.
- If you smell natural or propane gas or hear a hissing noise, leave immediately and call the fire department.
- If power lines are down outside your home, do not step in puddles or standing water.
- Materials such as cleaning products, paint, batteries, contaminated fuel and damaged fuel containers are hazardous. Check with local authorities for assistance with disposal to avoid risk.
- Make sure your food and water are safe. Discard items that have come in contact with floodwater, including canned goods, water bottles, plastic utensils and baby bottle nipples. When in doubt, throw it out.
Download the free Red Cross Emergency App to receive emergency alerts and information about what to do in case of flooding, as well as locations of open Red Cross shelters. Users can find it in smartphone app stores by searching for the American Red Cross, texting GETEMERGENCY to 90999 for a link to download the app or going to redcross.org/apps.