Flooding is common in South Florida’s flat terrain. Heavy rainstorms cause flooding in many poorly drained and low-lying areas. Flood waters can severely damage property and leave people stranded. Flood waters hide many dangers so remember these tips:

• Stay away from downed power lines, and report them to the power company.
• DO NOT walk, swim, or play in flood waters:
  • You may not be able to see how fast the water is moving and be hurt by flowing debris or fall into the holes underneath.
  • The water may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage.
  • Floodwaters may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.
• Avoid driving through flood waters. Driving through flooded roadways can flood your engine, leaving you stalled or stranded.
  • It only takes 2 feet of water to sweep most cars away, including SUVs and Pickups.

Visit these websites for more information about floods and steps to take to keep your family safe:

National Weather Service (http://www.floodsafety.noaa.gov/index.shtml)

Ready.gov (http://www.ready.gov/floods)

American Red Cross (http://www.redcross.org/prepare/disaster/flood)