Full Notification

SHERIFF GENE L. WRIGGELSWORTH PROVIDES FLOOD SAFETY TIPS FOR INGHAM COUNTY RESIDENTS

MASON, MI March 29 – April 4 is Severe Weather Awareness week in Michigan. Sheriff Gene L. Wriggelsworth offers the following flash flood safety tips to Ingham County Residents:
When a flash flood warning is issued for your area or flash flooding is observed, act quickly to save yourself. You may only have seconds:
• Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes valleys, low spots and washes.
• Avoid already flooded and quick water flow areas. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
• If driving be aware that the road bed may not be intact under flood waters. If you see water covering the road turn around – don’t drown! Never drive through flooded roadways. The water can be deeper than it appears. If your vehicle stalls leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants and sweep them away. Remember it is better to be wet than dead!
• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
• Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
When a flood warning is issued:
• Evacuate immediately if advised to do so.
• Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood waters.
• Continue to monitor weather on a radio or television.
For further information contact: Rob Dale, Regional Planner, Emergency Operations Center, 517-244-8077