Community Corner

Stay Safe During Heavy Rains

Prince William County Fire and Rescue gives tips on flood safety.

On May 16, Prince William County Fire and Rescue responded to localized street flooding in which drivers were trapped in their cars, according to a prepared statement by Prince William County Fire and Rescue. With the heavy rainfall predicted for this week, continue to watch for street flooding.

"All too often, victims underestimate the power and force of the water which can result in deadly incidents," fire and rescue spokesperson Kim Hylander said. "Flooding and the hazards associated with flooding can take place anywhere at anytime, especially when large amounts of rainfall is predicted. To protect you and your loved ones should flooding occur, heed the warnings and follow these life-saving tips:

Before the Flood:
Keep your automobile fueled

Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards
Prepare a disaster supply kit

Find out what's happening in Woodbridgewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

NOAA Weather Radio (battery-powered portable)
Extra batteries
Change the batteries during spring and fall when you change your clocks (spring
forward, fall back)
Flashlight
Can opener (manual)
First-aid kit
Canned food, non-perishable foods, bottled-water
Rubber boots, rubber gloves
Additional clothing
Develop a family evacuation plan
Discuss the plan and make sure everyone knows what to do in case of flooding

During the Flood:
Get out of areas subject to flooding and seek higher ground
Avoid underpasses, underground parking garages, and basements during or after heavy rains
Turn around, don't drown (TADD)
Do not attempt to cross flowing streams

Never drive through flooded roadways -- six inches of water can stall a vehicle!
If your vehicle stalls, get out and move to higher ground
Two feet of moving water can sweep a vehicle, including SUVs, downstream!
If walking in water that is above your ankles, stop and turn around – six inches of rushing water can sweep you off your feet!
At night, be cautious when driving or walking, visibility is poor and it becomes harder to recognize flood dangers
Children should never play around high water, storm drains, streams, ditches, etc.
When conditions are dangerous, do not camp or park your vehicle along streams, rivers, etc.

After the Flood:
Food
Fresh food that has come into contact with flood waters -- throw it out!
Water
Boil tap Water (before drinking or using)
Well water (before drinking or using)
Pump out well
Test water for purity
When in doubt call your local public health authority
Electrical equipment
Have checked and dried prior to returning to service
Use flashlights when inspecting buildings (residential and/or business)
Do not use lanterns, torches or matches when examining a building; flammables may be present
Report broken utility lines to the appropriate authorities."

Find out what's happening in Woodbridgewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Woodbridge's Neabsco Mill Road used to be one that flooded during any thunderstorm but thanks to improvements in years past, Neabsco Mills is no longer on the list.

Roads that are prone to flooding in Prince William County:

  • Mine Road in Dumfries
  • Route 1 & Joplin in Triangle
  • Logmill Road in Haymarket
  • Aden Road in Nokesville 


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