PEMA
Create disaster preparedness kits with supplies to include flashlights and extra batteries; portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries; first aid kit and manual; emergency food and water (1 gallon per person, per day, says the American Red Cross); non-electric can opener; essential medicines/prescriptions; cash, credit cards and important legal documents; sturdy shoes.
If residents are ordered by local officials to evacuate, they should do so without hesitating and should take important documents with them, including: checkbooks; driver's license; credit card information; birth certificates; Social Security cards; other forms and documents proving ownership/identity.
FEMA
If a flood is likely in your area:
- Listen to the radio or television for information.
- If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
- Be aware of stream, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to flood suddenly.
If you must prepare to evacuate:
- Secure your home. If you have time, bring in outdoor furniture. Move essential items to an upper floor.
- Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
If you have to leave your home:
- Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
- Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle can be swept away quickly.
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams, rivers or creeks, particularly during threatening conditions.
PPL Electric
- Stay clear of downed power lines.
- Do not use gas ovens or ranges to heat your home.
- Avoid candles and use flashlights instead.
- Never run a generator in your home, basement, or other indoor space where exhaust fumes may accumulate.
- Call 1-800-342-5775 (1-800-DIAL PPL) to report outages, or through the online Outage Center at www.pplelectric.com/outagecenter.
National Weather Service
- Clean out any storm drains or gutters that may be clogged by leaves.
- Consider moving items that may be damaged to higher ground.
- If you have limited mobility or know of someone who may be disabled consider arranging for temporary shelter if they live in an area that may flood or could lose power.
- If you need to evacuate be sure to care for your pets.