FEBRUARY - Flooding and Landslides

During a Flood
If a flood is likely in your area, you should:
• Listen to the radio or television for information.
• Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.

If you must prepare to evacuate, you should do the following:

• 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.
• 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 quickly swept away.

Landslide and Debris Flow (Mudslide)
Mudslides occur during periods of intense rainfall or rapid snowmelt. They usually start on steep hillsides, liquefy and accelerate down the hill. The debris flow ranges from watery mud to thick, rocky mud that can carry large items such as boulders and trees.  Always listen to the radio and television for the latest information and instructions for your area.

For more information:  http://www.ready.gov/landslides-debris-flow

Linn-Benton Alert Emergency Notification System

Benton and Linn Counties have joined together to offer a new public safety service to its residents. Linn-Benton Alert is a notification system that can call or message residents to warn them of impending or occurring emergencies as well as provide critical

life-safety instructions when they are needed most. Read more...