Residents Encouraged to Plan for Inclement Weather

March may have started off like a lamb, but as we inch closer to April, those rain showers are sure to blow into Naperville with greater frequency.

Flood Awareness week was acknowledged earlier this month, but making preventative plans for inclement weather is always a good option.

The has offered a number of recommendations for homeowners to ensure they are prepared in the case flooding occurs.

“Flooding can strike with little warning at any time,” Emergency Management Coordinator Dan Nelson said in a news release. “With spring weather starting early this year, the chances of flood events are heightened. It is essential that all community members understand how to prepare for flooding and have an emergency plan in place.”

The city of Naperville offers the following tips to keep individuals safe before and during a flood situation:

• Pay attention to flood watches and warnings.
• Have an emergency kit prepared and easily accessible. If you currently have kit in place, check the items and make sure they are in proper working order. Replace any items that have expired.
• Have a plan of action in place should you need to evacuate your home or business due to a flood.
• During a flood, move any items outside of your home that could be impacted by floodwaters inside the structure.
• In the event of a flood, turn off your utilities if instructed to do so by authorized officials. Do not attempt to turn off utilities if you are wet or in a location where there is standing water.
• Stay away from floodwaters. If flooding occurs, move to higher ground immediately.
• Do not walk through floodwaters. Floodwaters can move rapidly, and there is often a large amount of debris in the water.
• Do not drive through flooded streets. Six inches of water is enough to make your car stall. Two feet of water is enough to carry most vehicles away, including sport utility vehicles.
• If you are overtaken by floodwaters while in your vehicle, abandon the car and try to move to higher ground. If unable to do so, call 9-1-1.
• Do not allow children to play near high water, storm drains or ditches.
• Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams, especially when threatening weather conditions exist.
• Be especially cautious in the evening and at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
• Follow the directions of public safety officials.

Learn how to create a safety plan. Find information on preparing for a flood through the city of Naperville and the National Weather Service.