City of Long Beach Fire Department

WARNING & SAFETY BULLETIN

In anticipation of incoming storms and the occurance of
higher than normal tides, the Long Beach Fire Department
encourages residents to be prepared for possible flooding.

Below are some helpful hints and reminders to assist you.
  

Prior
to a
flood

• Check emergency supplies
• Flashlights & extra batteries
• Portable, battery-operated radio
          tuned to KKJZ 88.1 FM for local info,
          or to a local news radio station for emergency instructions
• First aid kit and manual
• Emergency food and bottled water (3 gallons per person)
• Non-electric can opener
• Protective clothing, raingear, bedding or sleeping bags
• Special items needed for infants, elderly, or the disabled
• Essential medicines
• Cash and credit cards
• Sturdy, closed toe shoes
  

Prepare an evacuation and communication plan

• What will you take with you when you evacuate?
• If you have to leave the area, where will you stay?
• How will family contact you?
         Designate someone to be a family contact

Prepare your home
or business

• Move important items to higher ground, or at least elevate
  items off of the ground
• Elevate and secure fuels, pesticides, and other hazardous
  materials
• Bring outdoor possessions, such as lawn furniture, grills,
  and trash containers inside or tie them down securely
• Wrap shelves, cabinets, other storage units in heavy
  plastic sealed with waterproof tape
• Use sandbags to barricade or divert the impending water
        Sandbags are available at all Long Beach Fire Stations
                Station Locations:
                http://www.longbeach.gov/fire/station_locations.asp
                or City Information Hotline: (562) 570-5252

• Know how to shut off your utilities (gas, water, electric)
        If evacuating due to rising flood waters
         If water level is inside the home and has the potential
         to affect electrical outlets...
  
  DO NOT SHUT OFF YOUR ELECTRICAL SERVICE
  IF YOU WILL BE STANDING IN POOLED WATERS
  

During the flood

• Listen to radio for emergency information
• For storm information and possible evacuation
  notifications
• With rising water inside the structure turn off utilities
• Remember the danger of water into your electrical
  outlets
• Be aware that flood waters may carry raw sewage,
  chemical waste, and other disease-spreading
  substances
• Wash your hands with soap and disinfected water
• Be aware of fallen power lines
• If in "doubt" evacuate area
  

• Check for structural damage
• Any significant shifting, sagging, leaning, or cracking of walls or ceiling…STAY OUT
• Do not enter home until it has been checked by a professional
  (Call building department for assistance)
• Do not use any open flame (candles, matches) until you can verify that there are no gas leaks
         If you hear a "hissing" noise or smell gas,
         leave structure immediately.
         Make sure the gas is off at the meter and call 911
• Check for sewage and water line damage
         If you suspect damage, avoid using the tap and toilets
         and call a plumber
• Throw away any food that has come in contact with the floodwaters
• Check on your neighbors and offer assistance