Flooding Safety

CHARLOTTE COUNTY, Fla. (Aug. 4, 2023) - Tropical Storm Debby has brought storm surge, high tides, and excessive rainfall, leading to localized flooding, particularly in tidal areas. Please take these precautions.

During flood stage:

• Stay on higher ground.
• Avoid contact with flood waters, especially if you have an open wound.
• Do not drive on flooded roads. Even though you may think it is safe to drive, you may strand yourself if your vehicle stalls. Do not drive around barricades. Driving through water increases the amount of water pushed into people's homes.
• If your vehicle stalls, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground. It can be replaced. Your life cannot.
• Do not attempt to wade across any moving water that is higher than your knees.

After the flood stage:

• Do not eat fresh food that has come into contact with flood water.
• Drink only bottled water.
• Stay away from disaster areas. You will only hamper rescue and recovery efforts.
• Do not handle live electrical equipment.
• Report downed power lines to law enforcement or to the power company.
• If you have private well water, follow CDC guidelines for safety:

https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/drinking/private-drinking-wells.html

• Flood Warning vs Watch
• FloodSmart.Gov
• NOAA Weather Radio
• Turn Around Don't Drown
• Disaster Planning Guide

Media and the public can follow Charlotte County Emergency Management for important emergency information at www.charlottecountyfl.gov/em, www.facebook.com/oemcharlottecounty, and www.twitter.com/ccoem.

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