TURN AROUND – DO NOT DROWN Never drive through flood waters.
Questions & Answers
Where in Dyersburg is flooding most likely to occur?
In the City of Dyersburg, flooding can occur anywhere when there is a heavy downpour. There are streets throughout the City that can be become dangerous during heavy rainfall. Other areas that could experience flooding, has been the neighborhoods south of and along the Forked Deer River. Although not a common experience, major flooding has occurred several times in the last 20 years.
What is the best advice on how to keep abreast of weather alerts?
Install a weather radio with SAME technology at home or work, which allows you to receive alerts only for specific counties
Cell phone text message and email alerts (numerous subscription and free sources to receive text and email alerts)
About Flooding
Moving flood water exerts pressure on everything in its path and causes erosion of soil and scour around solid objects. Utility systems, such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning, fuel, electrical systems, sewage maintenance systems, and water systems, if not elevated above base flood elevation, may also be damaged.
Also keep in mind that six inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet and move a vehicle. Two feet of moving water is enough to float most vehicles. Flood waters also tend to hide underwater debris, eroded roadways, and low spots in the road. NEVER attempt to cross flood waters – by vehicle or by foot.
Before the flood…
Purchase an indoor personal notification system. These systems will alert you to any hazardous conditions that may exist, including flash floods.
Develop an evacuation plan with your family. Consider multiple evacuation routes in case one gets cut off by flood waters. Avoid routes that are low in elevation or run near streams or known waterways. Consider safe locations to “meet up” in case you and your family are temporarily separated by flood waters.
Prepare your 72 Hour Kit.
Inspect your home for potential leaks. Fix these problem areas.
Find out if you are located in a high, medium, or low flood risk area. Check with your city, county, or on FEMA´s website for Flood Insurance Rate Maps to determine your house´s risk.
During the flood…
If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.
Never try to walk, swim, drive, or play in flood water.
If your vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and move to higher ground. Vehicles can be swept away by as little as two feet of water. Turn around, don´t drown!
Children should never play around high water, storm drains, viaducts, or dry stream beds.
