Monsoon safety tips

Every family should prepare a family disaster supply kit in the event of severe weather conditions. The disaster supply kit should contain essential items such as food, water, and sturdy clothing, to sustain a family for up to three days since electric power, gas and water services may be interrupted.

• Three gallons of water in clean, closed containers for each person and pet
• First aid kit
• A stock of food that requires no cooking or refrigeration
• Portable and working battery-operated radio, flashlights, and extra batteries
  (Candles and oil lamps are fire hazards)
• Necessary medications
• Backup power source for life support or other medical equipment that requires electricity to function

Flash Flood Safety Tips:

• If you live in a flood-prone area have an evacuation plan.
• Store materials and important materials above flood levels.

• Do not let children play near storm drains or washes after a heavy rain.
• Avoid low-water crossings.
• Avoid camping in a wash or in the bottom of a canyon with steep side slopes.
• Be especially cautious at night. Flood dangers are much more difficult to see in the dark.
• Do not camp or park a vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
• If your vehicle is suddenly caught in rising water, leave it immediately and seek higher ground.
• If a traffic signal is out, treat the intersection as a 4-way stop.
• When thunder roars, go indoors. If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning. There is no place outside that is safe from a lightning strike. Remain indoors for 30 minutes after seeing the last lightning and hearing the last thunder.

• Never touch wiring during a thunderstorm. It’s too late to unplug electronics if thunder is heard.