Flooding

The City and County of Broomfield may be impacted by torrential rains, freezing temperatures, or rapid snow melt. This may have effects on recreational activities, worker safety, damage to building(s) such as a flooded basement, vehicles and/or equipment, or cause a potential power outage and street closures.

Before Severe Weather Arrives

 Have a 72-Hour Preparedness Kit Refer to: Preparedness assembled. Home Kit + Go Kit + Car Essentials

Kit = 72-Hour Preparedness Kit.  Create your Communications plan.  Obtain a NOAA Public Alert Weather Radio or utilize a weather alert app for your mobile device to monitor severe weather.  Learn the warning terms for possible Flooding.

Flash Flood or Flood Watch—be alert to signs of flash flooding and be ready to evacuate on a moment’s notice. Urban and Small Stream Flood Advisory—local flooding of small streams, streets, or low-lying areas, such as railroad underpasses, is occurring or is imminent. Flash Flood Warning—a flash flood is imminent — act quickly to save yourself, because you may have only seconds. Flood Warning—flooding has been reported or is imminent—take necessary precautions at once.

 Learn the Early Warning & Information Systems for

Broomfield.  Create Evacuation plans.  Evacuation plan out of your home.  Evacuation plan out of your neighborhood.  Purchase a flood insurance policy.

Speak with your insurance agent for specifics that apply to your location and individual property.

Tip: Typically, there is a 30-day waiting period from date of purchase before your insurance policy goes into effect. Therefore, now is the best time to buy flood insurance.

During a Flood

·If instructed, turn off utilities at the main switches or valves. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water. ·Avoid areas subject to sudden flooding.

·Do not try to walk across running water more than 6 inches deep; even 6 inches of rapidly running water can sweep you off your feet. ·Do not drive into flooded areas. If your car stalls, abandon it immediately, and seek higher ground if possible. ·Do not allow children to play in and around ditches, culverts, or grates. ·If ordered to evacuate, grab your Go Kit and follow the directions of local authorities. ·Keep a radio tuned to a local station and follow emergency instructions.

Returning to Your Home After a Flood

·Do not turn electricity back on if you smell gas or if the electric system has been flooded. ·Wear sturdy work boots and gloves. ·Do not handle electric equipment in wet areas. ·Use flashlights to check buildings containing natural gas, propane, or gasoline. ·Follow directions from local authorities regarding the safety of drinking water. ·Clean and disinfect everything that was touched by flood waters. ·Throw out any food that came in contact with floodwaters. ·Report broken utility lines to the utility company. ·Keep tuned to your radio or television station for advice and instructions from local authorities on where to obtain medical care and where to get assistance for such necessities as housing, clothing, and food.